Three flood risk areas get new warning service

Areas of Syston were flooded when Storm Henk hit Leicestershire in January

Residents and businesses in three flood risk areas in Leicestershire are due to get a new alert service.

New gauges have been installed in Charnwood - at Barkby Brook at Syston, Rearsby Brook and Sileby Brook - to monitor river levels with the aim of protecting almost 700 properties.

Those signed up to the Environment Agency's free flood warning service, which is due to be launched on 14 August, will get a call, text or email informing them what action to take.

The agency said the measure has been put in place following "extensive flooding" across the East Midlands this winter, which saw 65 properties flooded in Syston.

'Early warnings'

The service will be offered to 481 properties close to Barkby Brook, 36 near Rearsby Brook and 154 at Sileby Brook. Those within the areas will be notified how to receive the alerts.

The agency explained if river levels rise to the extent that there is a risk of flooding in the area, residents would get an "appropriate message" advising them what to do.

They have been encouraged to put together a "personal flood plan", and prepare a bag containing items they need.

Paul Lockhart, flood and coastal risk manager for the East Midlands, said: "These new flood warnings will help people to get early warnings and know what actions they need to take if there is risk of flooding in their area."

Some of these communities have previously been warned of flooding via a siren system but this has not been effective for everyone, the agency added.

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