RESIDENTS of a marina will be unable to return home tonight.

Cheshire Police have provided another update as flood warnings remain in place in Northwich town centre and Acton Bridge following heavy rainfall brought by Storm Henk.

While no properties have been affected by the flooding, several residents of Northwich Quay Marina had to be evacuated from their homes.

The water level in the area has started to fall but has taken longer to recede than had been anticipated.

As such, the warning will remain in place overnight and the marina residents are not expected to be able to return and will instead be offered accommodation at a nearby hotel.

Superintendent Paul Hughes from Cheshire Constabulary said: “So far, we have been able to keep the disruption in Northwich to a minimum and thankfully no properties have been flooded.

“However, we are continuing to monitor the situation and work closely with our partners in the community to ensure that residents can carry on their daily business safely.

“I would encourage residents in the affected areas to monitor the alerts from the Environment Agency and take action if flooding has been forecast in your area.”

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Cheshire Police officers have been working with fellow emergency services and partner agencies to try and minimise disruption.

Phase two of Northwich’s emergency flood plan was activated on Wednesday morning, meaning London Road has been closed for much of the day between Chester Way and The Bull Ring.

It is not expected to reopen until Thursday morning (January 4).

Diversion are in place but motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

Local businesses, including Waitrose, remain open at this time, although the car parks are closed.

Meanwhile, residents are reminded not to walk or drive through any flood water.

Anyone concerned about potential flooding can sign up for free flood warnings on the Environment Agency's website, follow them on Twitter @EnvAgencyNW for the latest information or call the Flood Line on 0345 988 1188.