Flooded areas at risk from new downpours

Bands of heavy rain drenched much of England and Wales yesterday, with a warning of further downpours in southern regions.

The Met Office environment agency said conditions were far less severe than last year's flooding which forced thousands from their homes.

Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire found itself at risk once again as the River Avon overflowed its banks following five days of rain.

At Upton-upon-Severn in Worcestershire, rising waters were held back by barriers built last year too late to contain the floods.

- REUTERS