Northamptonshire flood threat: Caravan parks and river homes evacuated

About 1,000 people had to leave their homes in Northamptonshire as heavy rain led to flood warnings for four areas.

Emergency services and the Environment Agency are to draw up flood plans and are to hold emergency meetings later.

Residents of caravan parks at Billing Aquadrome and Cogenhoe Mill, in the Nene Valley, were told to leave and people near the river advised to move.

People without accommodation from isolated areas bordering the river are being housed at an emergency shelter.

Billing Aquadrome general manager Peter Angeledis said the site began to be cleared shortly after 16:00 BST on Monday.

He said he did not expect the site to be severely damaged or for flooding to affect the whole area.

Accommodation offered

Nearby caravan park Cogenhoe Mill, a smaller site with a mix of residential and holiday homes, began evacuating at the weekend.

People living close to the river have been advised to move to higher ground.

Guy Zomi from the Environment Agency said steps were under way to try and prevent flooding or to minimise its effects.

"We are taking a precautionary approach working with our partners, the police and local authorities to find the best way to manage the situation.

"We've got flood storage areas which we're using and these are up to about 80% of capacity which means we are holding back a lot of water."

Northamptonshire Police said people unable to return home or stay with family and friends were offered accommodation at Lings Forum leisure centre.

Food is being provided by the Salvation Army and car parking is available at Weston Favell shopping centre.