GALE force winds and flooding left authorities urging residents to avoid “dangerous coastal conditions” along the Ceredigion coast after the arrival of Storm Eleanor last week.

The storm, which blew in with gusts of over 70mph on Tuesday night, crashed huge waves into Aberystwyth promenade, battering the Ceredigion coast at high tide.

National Resources Wales issued­ flood warnings that lasted until Wednesday, 3 January, for Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Borth and Clarach Bay.

Ceri Jones from NRW said that “high tides and strong winds caused by Storm Eleanor” led to “storm surges and dangerous conditions”.

NRW warned that piers and promenades were particularly at risk – with Aberystwyth seafront once again bearing the brunt of the worst of the storm.

Ceredigion council workmen with heavy machinery were out in force on Wednesday morning to clear shingle and debris thrown up by the large waves which crashed on to the promenade.­

No damage to the sea walls, new bandstand or the town’s pier was reported despite the high winds, tide and waves.

The storm led to issues on Arriva­ Trains Wales services on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning along the Cambrian line, with speed restrictions in force and some services cancelled.

See this week’s south editions for the full story and more pictures, in shops and online Wednesday