Drivers warned to stop moving signs on flooded roads

Roads around Bedford have been disrupted by recent rainfall.

Drivers were warned not to remove "flood signs" on roads that had been closed as it could be "extremely dangerous".

Bedford Borough Council received reports that signage had been moved so motorists could "attempt to drive through" shut sections.

Several roads and bridges were closed in the county including part of the A421 which was submerged by water.

The authority said: "Our highways team is working tirelessly to assess the situation and will move the signs when it is safe to do so."

It added: "Important: Please do not move flood signs from roads. We have received reports that some flood signs have been moved so people can attempt to drive through closed roads.

"Moving these signs can be extremely dangerous. They are there for a reason, and removing them can put yourself and others at risk."

The government has issued flood warnings and flood alerts for many places in the Bedford area.

Enough water to fill two Olympic sized swimming pools has already been pumped from the A421which was left severely flooded after persistent rainfall.

It was shut in both directions between the A6, at Bedford, to the M1 junction 13, near Brogborough and Marston Moretaine, since Sunday.