HOUSEHOLDERS and businesses in Bradford on Avon spent part of New Year's Day putting up flood defences to protect their properties as the river levels rose on the Avon overnight.

The move came as the Environment Agency issued a flood warning for the Upper Avon area from Chippenham to Melksham.

People living near the town bridge area and in Church Street started to erect barriers to keep the swollen River Avon at bay as it threatened to burst its banks.

Walkers and dog walkers were unable to use the Packhorse Bridge at Bradford on Avon as the river levels rose.

The flood barrier on the Bull Pit alongside the River Avon has not yet been installed but is likely to be used if the levels rise.

The Environment Agency issued an automated warning because of industrial action by civil servants.

The warning has since been downgraded to a less severe flood alert.

It said: “Flooding is expected in this area. This means properties are at risk of flooding.

“Please take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather and river conditions.

“Avoid contact with, walking or driving through flood water. Consider activating any property flood protection products you may have.

“The Environment Agency Flood Warning System has issued this message based on rising river or tidal levels.” 

The B3016 between Staverton and Holt was closed to traffic as water from heavy rainfall over the past few days swelled the River Avon.

The B3105 close to the Farmer’s Roundabout at Melksham also flooded but was passable with care.

Local roads between Bradford on Avon and Westwood and between Westwood and Trowbridge and the B3109 Frome Road also flooded but were passable with care.

Meanwhile, flood alerts have also been issued on Monday for the Mid Bristol Avon area (covering Melksham, Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge and Potterne) and the River Cole and Dorcan Brook (covering Shrivenham, South Marston and parts of East Swindon).

The alert for Mid Bristol Avon says: "River levels are rising at the Bradford on Avon river gauge due to recent rainfall. Consequently, the risk of flooding remains.

"Expect flooding to affect low lying land and roads between Melksham and Bathford.

"The flood gates at Holt Road may be closed."