Three rescued from vehicles stuck in floodwater

Three people have been rescued from vehicles stuck in floodwater after heavy rain left some roads impassable.

Firefighters in Dorset rescued the driver of a van stranded at Hammoon, near Sturminster Newton, shortly after 11:00 GMT on Wednesday where water from the River Stour had submerged the road.

Crews also came to the rescue of three people stuck in a car at Boys Hill Drove, Holnest, shortly before 14:00.

One person managed to walk to safety while the others were rescued by wading teams.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews from three stations and a technical rescue team from Poole were called to help the van driver, who was help to safety using a sled.

In a Facebook post, the service said: "Luckily, we were able to rescue the people trapped and they are all now safe and well.

"The water was powerful enough to move the large vehicle... which demonstrates just how powerful and dangerous moving floodwater can be.

"If you are travelling in unfamiliar areas and come across flooded roads, please do not put yourself at risk by attempting to drive through it.

"Turn around and find an alternative route."