FLOOD gates have been closed in Marden and flood alerts remain in force across the county following heavy rainfall.

In a tweet accompanying a picture of a motorist in difficulty in floodwater near the village, Hereford Highways said: "Flood gates on the C1122 Marden Rail Crossing are closed.

"Don't attempt to take a short cut with safety like this motorist.

"You may find your insurer unwilling to pay for damage caused by driving through floodwater. You could endanger others by stalling on crossing too."

There are currently two alerts in force, for the River Lugg south of Leominster from Stoke Prior to Mordiford and for the River Wye between Hay-on-Wye and Ross-on-Wye.

Other at-risk locations include Bodenham, Lugwardine, Hampton Bishop, Byford, Bredwardine and Hereford.

No further rainfall is forecast, but river levels are expected to remain high for several days.

Environment Agency staff are monitoring defences and clearing weed screens and advise that low lying footpaths and roads near watercourses are avoided.