Flood warnings in place as river levels rise

Multiple flood warnings remain in place across the south of England following heavy rainfall on Thursday.

The Environment Agency (EA) has issued flood warnings and alerts for Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Dorset, along with numerous flood alerts in Oxfordshire and Berkshire.

Travellers are being urged to check their route before setting off, allow plenty of extra time for their journey and to avoid walking, cycling or driving through floodwater.

The EA said it was monitoring river levels and warned that flooding could be expected as they continue to rise on Friday.

A flood warning means the EA considers flooding of homes and businesses is likely and action should be taken.

Under a flood warning people are also advised to move their valuables and family, pets and vehicles to safety.

St Francis Animal Welfare, in Fair Oak near Eastleigh, shared a video and images of flooding after water began to deluge its shelter on Thursday afternoon.

After appealing for help on social media, the charity said volunteers were able to put sandbags in place to prevent its buildings flooding.

At Godshill near Fordingbridge in Hampshire a car got stuck attempting to cross a ford.

South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: "Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of our fire and rescue service colleagues and initially passers-by, the three occupants of the vehicle were able to be rescued unscathed".

The downpours also led to a number of venues cancelling festive events and outdoor carol singing on Thursday evening.