A FLOOD alert has been issued for homes along the River Dee between Whitchurch and Chester.

The Environment Agency says because of heavy rainfall, flooding is expected along low-lying land and roads near the river.

People are urged to avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and to not attempt to walk or drive through flood water.

A spokesman for the environment agency said: "River levels remain high on the River Dee due to heavy rainfall overnight.

"Flooding is possible of low-lying land and roads around the River Dee at Shocklach, Farndon, Handley, Lower Kinnerton, Chester and Puddington.

"Townfield Lane has now been cut off.

"Avoid using low-lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water.

"Our incident response staff are closely monitoring the situation.

"Please be aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with the current situation."