Bradford-on-Avon submerged in flood water as public urged not to travel through town centre

The public have been urged not to travel through the centre of Bradford-on-Avon as the town has been submerged by flood water. The Mayor of Bradford-on-Avon pleaded with the public not to put businesses at risk by crossing the town bridge, which has been closed.

Mayor Jack Vittles made the public plea earlier this morning (Monday, November 25) on Facebook: "Please do not attempt to cross the town bridge and PLEASE LISTEN AND RESPECT our hard working town wardens on the blocked sections. [...] Any vans/lorries who want to ‘risk it’ are putting our local businesses at risk with their waves.

"DO NOT travel through town centre."

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The flooding has caused disruption in the Wiltshire town, with one resident commenting: "Such a shame. Really sad for all the businesses. Will be doing our best to support to all once the water has cleared. Really disappointed not to have seen any proper flood defence."

Another person wrote that the flood waters have trapped them and their partner in their flat. Meanwhile, the local GP surgery announced they will be cancelling face-to-face appointments today in the wake of the floods.

The news comes after Storm Bert hit the country over the weekend, with CNN reporting that five people have tragically died in the wake of the storm. This morning Great Western Rail told customers "Do not travel" after "Severe flooding": "GWR has suspended train services on all key routes after flooding and fallen trees have blocked access at key locations on the Great Western network".

The company went on to apologise to customers and say their tickets will be valid on Tuesday, November 26 and Wednesday, November 27. Alternatively, they can request a refund.