Drivers are being warned to avoid a section of the M25 and a potential ‘traffic nightmare’ this weekend when part of the busy motorway is closed.

The AA fears the three-night closure will lead to delays across the region as the works clash with the first warm weekend of the year.

The M25 section between Junction 8 for Reigate and Junction 10 for Cobham will be shut in both directions from 9pm on Friday, May 10 to 6am on Monday, May 13 to lift concrete beams for a new bridge into place.

But with the Met Office predicting temperatures of up to 24C - and some of the final football fixtures of the year taking place - there are fears the closure will cause traffic chaos in surrounding areas.

Drivers who know they need to either use the M25 or neighbouring routes this weekend are being urged to plan their journey carefully before setting-off to take into account the closure.

There are also warnings that motorists who fail to stick to the official diversion around the closure itself will risk a fine in London’s low emission zone if they divert from the approved route.

The official diversion will take cars on a 19-mile journey on A roads and through some ULEZ zones where, while cameras are on, enforcement won’t be applied. But any car found to be attempting a shorter route will face enforcement action if their vehicle is not compliant, says National Highways.

Alongside daytrippers expected to take advantage of the predicted warm weather with trips to the coast - airport connections at Gatwick and Heathrow, and football fixtures - including the women’s FA Cup Final at Wembley on Sunday - may also be affected by the extensive motorway closure.

Traffic volumes are also expected to be increased further by travelling Premier League fans - with Newcastle supporters heading to Brighton being urged to go east around the M25 to the Dartford Crossing and Brentford playing away to Bournemouth.

Hundreds of junior footballers and their families from across Kent, Sussex and Surrey are also looking to make their way to Butlin’s in Bognor Regis for ESF 2024 - the UK’s biggest youth football festival - over Saturday and Sunday.

Chris Wood from the AA said: “With an upturn in the weather forecast and numerous sporting events this weekend it’s likely to be incredibly busy in and around London, particularly the M25 Junctions 8 to 10.

“We advise drivers to plan their journeys accordingly, avoid the west side of the M25 if possible, but if not to expect delays and stick to the detour routes.

“Prepare your vehicle before setting off by checking oil and coolant levels, tyres and make sure you have enough fuel or electric charge to cover the planned diversions. Also, pack plenty of cold drinks and snacks for passengers.”