MOTORISTS are being urged to drive sensibly during flooding and have consideration for others.

Drivers are being warned never to move road closure signs or attempt to drive through roads which have been closed due to flooding, both of which are a potential offence. They are also being reminded that splashing pedestrians is an offence for which they could be prosecuted.

Jonathon Seed, Wiltshire Council cabinet member responsible for flooding, said: “On two occasions when I have visited flood affected villages in the last week I have personally witnessed drivers creating unacceptable difficulties to pedestrians by travelling too fast through flood water. On one occasion in Tilshead cars drenched the team laying sandbags to help keep the road open and this is totally unacceptable.”

Motorists are also being urged to have consideration for householders, who are at danger of flooding by waves from fast moving vehicles. S

teve Cox, head of roads policing at Wiltshire Police, said: “I cannot stress how important it is for motorists to pay due care and attention to the roads during this challenging weather. Motorists should pay attention to road signs and, in particular, if a road is closed do not attempt to drive on it as you may be putting your vehicle or your life at risk.

“Wiltshire drivers need to illustrate common courtesy to home owners and pedestrians while moving through minor flooding. It is also important to realise that if a car owner drives recklessly or ignores road signs that they could be prosecuted by the police and I would encourage the public to report any wrongdoing to the police via the 101 telephone number.”