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A teenager has died after suffering serious head injuries when his scooter crashed in stormy weather conditions.

The 18-year-old was taken to Hurstwood Park Neurological Centre following the crash in Brighton Road, Lancing, at about 04:25 BST on Friday.

Sussex Police said the motorcyclist died from his injuries.

A spokesman said: "At the time of the collision there was heavy rain and wind but the cause of the collision is still being investigated."

He added: "We cannot confirm that it occurred as a result of the weather."

It is believed rider came off his vehicle when it hit a kerb.

Sussex Police have urged motorcyclists not to make any unnecessary journeys in the high winds.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning across the South East.

Gusts of up to 50mph were forecast inland, with 60-65mph expected in exposed coastal areas. Winds were expected to peak in the early afternoon.

The Highways Agency warned drivers of high-sided vehicles to avoid the A26 between Lewes and Newhaven in East Sussex and the A27 between Pevensey in East Sussex and Hampshire.

Fallen trees were also reported on roads in Sussex and the high winds wrecked a marquee on Lancing seafront.

Road closures also followed accidents in the early hours of Friday in Brighton Road, Lancing and on the A27 near the Hangleton interchange.

The driver of a Mazda was taken to hospital after the collision between two cars on the A27 near Hangleton.