A woman in Braintree had to be rescued this morning after her car became stuck in flood water.

Fire crews were called shortly before 9am to the B1053 Shalford Green where a woman driving a black mini had become stuck in flood water.

Firefighters in dry suits used a rescue dinghy to reach the woman and bring her back to safety.

Now fire crews have warned motorists to take care on flooded roads, and issued advice to drivers not to drive through water deeper than the centre of the car’s wheels, which can cause loss of power or control.

A spokesman from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “It is important that when faced with water drivers exercise a little common sense.

“If they can they should find an alternative route.

“If there is no way round they should park safely and let the water subside until it has reached a safe level.

“Just driving into water and hoping for the best is not an option, by the time you find out the water is too deep you are already trapped.”