WEATHER warnings forecast heavy downpours and thunderstorms over Swindon - but far less rain fell than expected.

The Met Office alerted residents to expect up to 30mm of rain falling within the space of two hours yesterday afternoon, which would have been equivalent to two months' worth of average rain in less than a day.

The meteorological agency predicted possible flooding and interruption to power supplies and public transport services around Wiltshire.

However, when the time came, only 4mm at most of rain fell around Swindon and Royal Wootton Bassett, with no sign of thunder or lightning.

Consistent rainfall throughout the morning cleared by mid-afternoon to reveal bright sunshine before the clouds returned to cast a light drizzle over the area, with some heavy rain early this morning.

The weekend forecast for Swindon is considerably sunnier, with light cloud and temperatures of between eight and 16 degrees Celsius.

A Met Office spokesman said: "Today, there should be a mixture of sunny spells and a few, mainly light, showers with a fresh, blustery wind. Possibly rather cloudy across northeastern parts at first with winds easing through the day.

"Sunday and Monday will see a mixture of sunny spells and scattered showers, these will be heavy and possibly thundery.

"Further rain and strengthening winds on Tuesday."