It has been the scene of three historic sieges but Rochester Castle succumbed to the storms today.

Safety concerns forced the closure of the Norman ruins, although the grounds and shop remained open as winds lashed the Towns.

The castle joined Strood market as a victim of the wild weather with winds gusting up to 70mph, causing treacherous driving conditions.

Branches blown onto the road at Dock Road, Chatham, flooding at the Medway Tunnel and a tree felled at Anthonys Way, on the Medway City Estate, caused hazards for motorists.

Pupils at the Silver Bank Referral Unit in Chatham enjoyed an unexpected day off.

Although forecasters were predicting a lull, storm-force winds continued to batter the area throughout the day with fears of a difficult journey home for schoolchildren and commuters.