Volunteer floodwardens help local residents

Flood warnings remain in force along much of the River Severn and many major routes in Herefordshire and Worcestershire are under water.

Since Friday, firecrews have carried out 40 rescue operations in Hereford and Worcester.

Hereford and Worcester fire brigade has also warned motorists not to drive along flooded roads because of the risk of hidden hazards.

But the Environment Agency said river levels should have peaked on the Severn in Shrewsbury, Bridgnorth and at Bewdley.

In Worcester, the level will fall overnight on Monday, but is expected to rise again early on Tuesday morning.

The Wye is said to be returning to normal while levels on the Avon are falling.

Defences 'needed'

The Midlands' problems followed torrential rain in the Welsh hills, swelling rivers such as the Severn and Wye.

The city of Hereford was split in half as the River Wye rose 18 feet above its normal level, bursting its banks and causing major damage.

There are calls for improved flood defences

Resident Gail Barrett returned to her home to find water everywhere and her furniture ruined.

"I am really quite upset at the state of it all. It's a lot, lot worse than I thought."

Many people in the city say they need better protection from the river.

Volunteer flood warden, Colin Taylor said: "We need flood defences - there is no doubt about that.

"The council are looking into the prospects of doing something - a long time away, but we hope they're sooner than later."

Homes have also been flooded lower down the River Wye at Brockweir.

In Worcestershire, the racecourse and cricket ground in the city centre were under water after the River Severn burst its banks.

In Gloucestershire, police warned motorists to avoid the flood-hit village of Lower Lydbrook where the main road had to be closed to traffic.

Although the road was shut after the River Wye breached its banks, police said drivers were ignoring road closure signs and trying to get through, running the risk of getting stuck.