Homes in Folkestone were at risk of flooding today, the Environment Agency (EA) warned.

The government body raised a flood alert for the Pent Stream area from Cheriton to the Harbour, advising people to 'be prepared'.

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They said the river level had risen due to a blockage near the Foco Club, in Foord Road, plus substantial rain fall.

Pictures emerged of flooding in nearby Black Bull Road, Russell Road, Canterbury Road and Dover Road, which is near the skate park that is currently under construction.

Wheelie bins were seen floating in water and a car became stuck, prompting police and fire crews to wade into the water.

The EA said 'flooding of property may be imminent' and sent officers to the town to monitor the situation.

One dad, fearful that his house was soon to flood, took to the street with a broom and managed to sweep all the water away.

In fact, Peter Cunningham cleared Russell Road of all the surface water, and saved dozens of homes from flooding.

A spokesman for the EA said: "River levels have risen possibly as a result of a blockage near the Foco Club and because of a heavy downpour.

"Consequently, flooding of property may be imminent.

"Further rainfall is forecast over the next hour.

"We are closely monitoring the situation.

FOOTAGE BY ANNA HURMA

"Our incident response staff are out on the ground checking and clearing any blockages and debris on the Pent Stream.

"Please avoid contact with flood water and remain safe.

"This river can respond extremely quickly.

"We are attending the site and monitoring conditions closely."

The flood alert was removed by the EA this afternoon but said 'standing water and debris may still remain'.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said: "Firefighters have been working to help clear flood water in several streets in Folkestone today.

"Crews visited Black Bull Road, Russell Road, Mead Road, Bradstone Road, Cheriton Road, Road of Remembrance and Dover Road, working to help clear drains of leaves.

"In some areas the water receded as a result, however some roads remain closed due flooding.

"Firefighters are urging the public to take care around flood water, and to avoid travelling through flood water, whether on foot or in a vehicle."

A spokesman for Kent Police said: "At 10.08am Kent Police was called to a report Black Bull Road in Folkestone had been flooded.

"Officers attended and, to ensure public safety, enforced a localised road closure which was lifted by around 10.47am.

"Kent Fire and Rescue Service was also in attendance.

"At 10.30am Kent Police was also notified of flooding in Dover Road, Folkestone, however the matter was dealt with by the local highways authority and officer attendance was not necessary."

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