Flood rescues spark warning ahead of heavy rain

One of several rescues saw a car stuck in fast-flowing water in Whitchurch

Motorists have been urged not to drive through flood-water after a spate of rescues across Dorset, with further heavy rainfall forecast.

The incidents included a driver and passenger who became trapped in a car after trying to drive though water in Whitchurch.

Crews from Charmouth found the pair marooned in fast-flowing water on Cards Mill Lane.

The warning comes as a band of heavy rain is forecast to sweep in overnight.

Crews from Sherborne Fire Station waded through flood-water to rescue a motorist

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said many roads, especially back country routes, have been left "impassable".

"Please do not drive through flood-water. Not only can you damage your car but you can put yourself at risk," the service said.

"It only takes a tiny amount of water to stop your car engine from working - and you'll also have to sort recovery.

"Only call 999 if someone is trapped in the vehicle."

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain from midnight until 19:00 GMT on Thursday.

The fire service said roads have been badly flooded across the county

Current Environment Agency warnings include:

• The Upper and Lower Frome

• Rivers Stour and Iwerne at Stourpaine

• The River Yeo from Sherborne to Yeovil

Numerous flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, are also in force across Dorset.

Issued by the EA due to rising river levels, residents are being warned to take action.

The agency said people should "avoid contact with, walking or driving through flood-water. Consider activating any property flood protection products you may have."

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