Stargazers excited for the much-hyped supermoon may be disappointed as forecasters are predicting that thick cloud cover will block the region's view of the phenomenon tonight.

Anticipation has been high for the moon's biggest and brightest display in nearly 70 years, with a similar showing not expected until 2034.

It will be at its brightest tonight because it is coming closer to the Earth along its elliptical orbit than at any time since 1948.

Viewers can expect to see a moon about 14pc larger in diameter and about 30pc brighter than when it is at its furthest from the earth.

But forecasters have warned that thick cloud cover across the region will spoil the view for many people.

A forecaster at UEA-based Weatherquest said: 'There will be a fair bit of cloud cover tonight but it may be thin enough for a small amount of time for people to catch a glimpse.

'The best time will be between 11pm and 2am but there will still be clouds drifting through at this time so it is not guaranteed.

'In the north east and some parts of Scotland they may catch sight of it due to the mountains interfering but we don't have that down here so it looks like people may be disappointed.'

Various other astronomical events have taken place this year, including a total solar eclipse in March, perseids meteor shower in August and a blood-red supermoon in September.

Still to come this year is a Geminids meteor shower, which will take place between December 4 and 17 and the winter solstice on December 21 which is the shortest day and longest night of the year.