FLOOD defence barriers have been installed in Bradford on Avon as Storm Alex brought heavy rainfall across Wiltshire.

Rising river levels on the River Avon led to Community Emergency Volunteers lending a hand to an Environment Agency team to install the temporary flood defence barrier next to the Bull Pit.

Widespread disruption to roads and flooding in the south west is expected to take place over the weekend, the Met Office said.

In a social media post, the Bradford on Avon CEV said: “Assisting the Environment Agency South West field team with building the barriers today.

“A precaution against high river levels expected tonight. We are monitoring levels and barriers.”

The associated heavy persistent rainfall river levels are forecast to rise at the Bradford on Avon river gauge.

Flooding could occur throughout Sunday; the variability in river rate of response means there is some uncertainty of when the peak will occur.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: "We expect the flood warning threshold will be reached from late afternoon into Sunday evening.

"We believe there is a possibility of flooding for low lying land and roads in Bradford on Avon. As a result off this our incident response staff have erected temporary flood barriers in Bradford on Avon.

"The flood gates at Holt Road may be closed as further heavy and persistent rainfall is forecast over the next 24 to 36 hours.

"We expect river levels to continue remain high over the next few days .We are closely monitoring the situation." 

Much of England, Wales and Scotland will remain unsettled tonight with further heavy rain at times. South-west England will be windy.

Much of the UK will have further rain at times tomorrow, heavy in places. Southern England will feel chilly with fresh to strong winds.

There is an unsettled outlook for Monday to Wednesday. On Monday, low pressure will continue to dominate the weather, bringing further showers for many.

However, there should also be some brighter interludes and winds should be mainly gentle. Further showers or rain on Monday night.

Tuesday and Wednesday will see showers again for many. It looks like becoming breezier, too, with a freshening westerly wind.

For more details, go to https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings