Torrential rain hits Britain

The Environment Agency issued flood warnings across many parts of Britain yesterday as torrential rain swamped northern and central areas and weather forecasters warned there could be more downpours.

Homes in Northamptonshire and South and West Yorkshire were hit by flooding yesterday, while train services were suspended between Birmingham and the east Midlands.

The Met Office said 88 millimetres of rain had fallen on Birmingham in 24 hours, more than it normally gets in a month at this time of year. In Yorkshire, 51 mm had fallen in just six hours.

The Met Office said severe weather warnings had been issued for Wales, northwest, southwest and central England.

However a spokesman said that although some heavy showers would continue today, clearer weather is expected for tomorrow.