FIREFIGHTERS have appealed to motorists to avoid flood-hit roads after two drivers had to be rescued in their cars last weekend.

On Friday (January 7) a 60-year-old man from his car after he became stranded in water at a flooded ford on Hay Green Lane, Blackmore.

The next day another man was rescued after becoming stuck in a hatchback in flood water in Buttsbury Road, Ingatestone, after the nearby wash burst it’s banks and completely covered the roads and surrounding fields.

Both vehicles were stuck in around two feet of water and Essex Fire and Rescue Service had to use water rescue equipment to bring the men to safety.

Sub Officer Calvin Goody, from Ingatestone Fire Station, said: “Please do not attempt to drive or walk through flood water, it is extremely dangerous to try and pass through as you can not see where the road meets the river.

“CFRS would urge people not to drive through any flood water and to take an alternative route to your destination if possible.

“If you do happen to get stranded, do not attempt to leave your vehicle, call 999 and wait for the emergency services.”