Part of a famous York street has been forced to close due to strong winds during Storm Jocelyn.

Shambles closed this morning (Wednesday, January 24) at about 10am.

The closure was put in place after tiles were blown off roofs in the historic street.

York Press: Part of Shambles closed as Storm Jocelyn hits Part of Shambles closed as Storm Jocelyn hits (Image: Dylan Connell)

Shoppers and traders were told to leave the street. 

By 11.30am some business at the King’s Square end of Shambles had reopened.

A section of the street from the York Ghost Merchants to Pavement remained closed with workers on the scene. 

One shop employee told The Press that most traders had gone home for the day.

York Press: Part of Shambles closed as Storm Jocelyn hits Part of Shambles closed as Storm Jocelyn hits (Image: Dylan Connell)

Tourists continued to gather at either end of Shambles taking photographs of the historic buildings which date back to the 14th century.

James Gilchrist, director of transport, environment and planning at City of York Council, said the closure was put in place to keep the public safe.

"We were advised that there was a risk of further tiles falling given the high winds, so the decision to close the road was taken to protect the public from immediate danger," he said.

"The street remains cordoned off due to the high winds. Contractors will be visiting tomorrow to assess the situation so the road can be opened as soon as possible.

“You can report any problems online via: https://www.york.gov.uk/ReportProblems.”