17/11/2010

Rescue Underway After 'Major Flooding'

Devon and Cornwall police are dealing with a "major flooding incident" after flash floods hit Cornwall overnight.

In Pentewan, many were trapped in their cars and homes after downpours left drains in the area overwhelmed. Vehicles in Lostwithiel were reported to be partially submerged.

Rescues got underway when coast guard helicopters arrived on the scene.

A number of main roads are closed due to floods reaching 6ft-high.

Train services were also suspended due to landslips.

Several schools have been closed and The Eden Project tourist attraction was forced to close in the St Austell area.

Villages of Par, St Blazey Gate, Bodmin and Luxulyan, have all been affected.

A police spokesman said "parts of mid and north Cornwall have been affected by serious flooding".

He added: "Areas of St Austell and St Blazey are impassable and people have been trapped in their cars and homes."

There are no reports of injuries, but people are being advised not to travel.

(BMcN/GK)

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