Record breaker! Avon reached record level in Rugby

This is the highest level recorded since monitoring started in 1973, and beats the previous high of 3.5m recorded in April 1998.

The river burst its banks shortly after 5pm yesterday, flooding the Mill Road area, car parks at Elliott’s Field and Tesco, and park land in Newbold. Water had gone by the morning rush hour.

The rivers Avon and Leam also over topped their banks at Little Lawford, Newnham Paddox, Bretford, Wolston, Kites Hardwick and Marton, causing road closures.

Cllr Michael Stokes, leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “The council has been working with partners to help make sure that residents and businesses were aware of the rising flood water and had time to prepare.

“I’d like to thank council officers and the emergency services for their great communication, and for the help that they gave.

“In the end, despite the Avon reaching a record high in Rugby, damage was limited and it was pleasing to see the flood alleviation works at Elliott’s Field, for example, working as designed.

“While the flooded car park was an impressive sight, this controlled flooding prevented damage to the shops and to neighbouring roads and properties.

“With the flood water now receding we are concentrating on cleaning up debris and other damage. Residents can help us by reporting any problems through our website at www.rugby.gov.uk.”

You can sign up to receive flood alerts by following the link at www.rugby.gov.uk/flooding.