'Real and present danger' of flooding returns to villages outside Atherstone

Families in villages on the outskirts of Atherstone have been told to "protect themselves" as the threat of serious flooding returns to the area.

The communities of Sheepy Magna, Sheepy Parva and Sibson are back on danger alert from the rising waters of the River Sence.

The Environment Agency says there is a real risk of flooding of low-lying property, roads and farmland just off the A444 on the Wellsborough Road.

The two maps illustrated show the threatened area along the river from Temple Mill to Sheepy Magna including Sibson Mill, Lovatts Bridge and Sheepy Parva.

The agency said: "We expect river levels to remain high and steady. We are closely monitoring the situation.

"Please activate any property flood protection products you may have, such as flood barriers and air brick covers and call 999 if in immediate danger."

The 'red' alert triangle – where floods are "expected" – is the only one currently in force in Warwickshire.

The emergency procedures include telling householders to turn off gas, water and electricity; move valuables to upper floors if possible; and ensure family members, pets and vehicles are "taken to safety".

Over the last two weeks the area from under water from the effects of first Storm Ciara, then Dennis.

Two rivers that impact on the district were highlighted among 19 major 'live' Government warnings where flood was "expected".

The weekend before last the villages of Pinwall, Grendon and Witherley were badly disrupted by flooding.