South West hit by flash floods

Heavy downpours led to flash flooding in areas of south Somerset, the fire service said.

In the worst-hit areas, houses were evacuated and sandbags deployed, Devon and Somerset Fire said.

Devon and Somerset Fire Service spokesman Andy Newland said: "We've been inundated with calls, but they are starting to slow down now.

"We're particularly concerned for the elderly members of the community so we're evacuating them from their homes.

"Members of the community are pulling together to help out."

Mr Newland said heavy rainfall earlier led to flash flooding across half the county.

He said: "We've not had reports of any injuries, but some households have been affected."

Crewkerne, Ilminster, Shepton Mallett and Wells were most severely affected, Mr Newland said.

Laura Gilchrist, forecaster for MeteoGroup, said around 11.8mm of rain had fallen over the Yeovil station by 10.30pm.