EMERGENCY services were on stand-by last night (Sunday, 29 September) as rain continued to fall across the region, bringing the possibility of further flooding.

A statement from Hertfordshire County Council this morning said: "Last night we had a presence in Hitchin following more rain forecast and flood warnings, luckily the rain wasn't as heavy as expected.

"Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service are preparing to leave the scene but will continue to monitor the situation.

"They are ready to respond should there be a need or if the weather forecast changes."

A flood warning is still in place for the River Purwell in Hitchin. Four other areas in Hertfordshire also have flood alerts in place.

Residents are encouraged to keep up to date with flood alerts through this link: Flood warning for Ash Brook, Ippollitts Brook and River Purwell at Hitchin, Ashbrook, Little Wymondley and Graveley - GOV.UK (check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk)

County Council highways crews are on scene in Hitchin to continue offering support to residents but also to repair a man-hole cover that has been damaged by the flooding.

They are also preparing to clean the road and remove any contamination to ensure it is safe for road users before re-opening it hopefully later today.