ESSEX fire and rescue service were called out to more than 30 people across the county who had been affected by flooding.

In most instances callers were advised to isolate their electrical supply and to call back immediately is the flooding did begin to affect their electricity.

A number of people were rescued after being trapped in their cars by flood water, but in most cases the service was unable to help.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Gary Flemming said: “We urge drivers to take caution when driving into flooded areas of road, the water can be deceptively deep and cars quickly become trapped.

“This puts the occupants of cars at great risk and can tie up fire crews for a long time carrying our risky and complicated rescues.

“It is better to add a few minutes onto your journey time by finding routes which avoid flood water than risk damaging your car and endangering your life by driving into deep water on the road.”

A man was rescued from his car in Mundon Road, Latchingdon, after driving into knee deep flood water. The fire service was called out at 7.20am and was released by 8am.