Flood warning as festival performance called off

Flood warnings were in place today across the Midlands, with heavy rain expected to batter the region throughout today and continuing over the weekend.

It comes after the first performance of a show to mark the opening of the London 2012 Festival in Birmingham had to be cancelled due to the rain.

The Voyage was due to premiere in Victoria Square last night but was called off because of slippery surfaces.

Performances are due to take place at 10pm tonight, tomorrow and Sunday but could face the same fate.

The Met Office warned yet another weekend of bad weather was poised to strike. Forecasters say there will be outbreaks of heavy rain throughout today, with temperatures reaching 16C (60.8F). Up to two inches of rain is expected.

Further rain is expected to hit tomorrow as well as winds of up to 40mph, with temperatures due to reach 18C (64F). Showers will ease on Sunday afternoon.