[Josy]

The government has issued a "smog alert" in England and Wales for ozone and polluting particles known as PM10s, which can affect people's health.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said high levels of pollution are expected from 1500 BST on Thursday and over the Easter weekend.

It said the alert was due to warm and still conditions brought on by a high pressure system.

Defra is urging the public to take "sensible precautions".

It said some people, including those who have asthma - and particularly the elderly - could be affected by the high pollution levels and may notice an impact on their breathing.

It advised people to avoid taking exercise outside in the afternoon if they are susceptible to the pollutants, and not to take unnecessary short car journeys in a bid to help reduce the build-up of ozone.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13161431