A flood alert has been issued for a stretch of river following intense bursts of rainfall.

The Environment Agency (EA) says it expects continued very high water levels on the River Beult from Pluckley and Bethersden to Hampstead Lock at Yalding - with further rain predicted to fall today.

Heavy rain fell yesterday, and there remains risk of sudden, localised downpours through this week.

Areas said to be at risk of flooding from the Beult include Smarden, Headcorn, Collier Street, Benover and The Lees.

An EA spokesman said: "If further rainfall occurs over the Beult catchment, river levels are likely to increase further and flooding of low lying land and roads will be possible, particularly around Bethersden, Pluckley, Smarden and Headcorn.

"Our incident response staff are actively monitoring the situation and are prepared to respond if required. Please stay aware in case further warnings are issued and avoid driving through flood water."

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