RESIDENTS of Croft near Darlington were warned there could be flooding on Saturday evening.

A Flood Warning was issued for the River Tees at Hurworth Place and Newbus Grange.

"This means that flooding of homes and businesses is expected. Act now to protect yourself and your property," a spokesman for the Environment Agency said.

Flooding was expected for Properties at Linden Court, Baxby Terrace, Linden Drive, Hurworth Road and Tees View, at Hurworth Place.

"Also the Caravan Park at Newbus Grange. Rain through the night has caused the River Tees to rise.

The Northern Echo:

Environment Agency map - The shaded areas show the potential extent of flooding

"River levels are rising significantly at Hurworth Place and Newbus Grange, where property flooding could be seen after 10.30am Saturday, December 5.

"More heavy rain is expected throughout Saturday into the early hours of Sunday morning. We are monitoring the situation."

Speaking from the scene, Northern Echo reporter Julia Breen said: "No residents have been evacuated.

"Police at the scene said river levels will peak between 7pm and 8pm so that is the time to be watchful.

"But as it stands at the moment levels on the River Tees have actually dropped slightly."

Durham Police tweeted on Saturday afternoon: "Road problems at Croft and Hurworth due to flooding and B6278 in Stanhope after HGV overturns."

The Northern Echo:

The situation at Croft. Photo: CDDFR via Twitter

County Durham Fire and Rescue were on the scene at Croft.

A spokesman tweeted: "This is the current situation at Croft- River Tees rising rapidly due to weather conditions. Please take extra care."

Elsewhere, traffic was diverted away from Acklam Road in Middlesbrough after a tree fell down. It is understood the diversion caused substantial traffic jams.

The Northern Echo:

The river at Croft on Saturday evening. Photo: Julia Breen

In Bishop Auckland on Saturday night, police hit out at drivers trying to  negotiate their way through rising waters.

"Three vehicles have now become stuck in the water between Willington and and Newfield. A lot of people are ignoring the road closure signs," a spokesman for the town's police force said. "Please do not attempt to cross flooded water if you don't know the depth. The signs are there to protect you!"

The Northern Echo:

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