POLICE have provided an update on flooding in Northwich.

Officers are working with fellow emergency services and partner agencies to minimise disruption in the town following heavy rain brought by Storm Henk.

An Environment Agency flood warning is currently in place in the town and a “small number” of residents at Northwich Marina have been evacuated as a precautionary measure, Cheshire Police confirmed.

Superintendent Paul Hughes said: “We are working closely with our partners in the community to monitor the situation and collectively we will do all we can to minimise any disruption in Northwich and keep people safe.

“All agencies continue to monitor the situation closely for any potential flooding and 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.”

Northwich’s flood defences have now been put in place, meaning that London Road is closed between Chesterway and The Bull Ring.

Diversions 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.

Flood warnings are also in place in the Acton Bridge area, although no properties are currently affected, and no evacuations have taken place.

At this stage, it is predicted that the river levels will start receding shortly and it is hoped that impacted residents of Northwich Marina will be able to return to their boats this evening.

However, plans are in place should this change and anyone affected by the flood warnings is urged to keep up to date with the latest news on the Environment Agency website, social media or by calling the Flood Line on 0345 988 1188.

Cheshire Police are also reminding people not to walk or drive through any flood water.

“This is often deeper than it looks, it may be moving fast and there could be hidden hazards underneath such as raised manhole covers, which can pose a danger,” a spokesperson said.