MORE heavy rain is expected to batter Somerset on New Year's Day, the Environment Agency has warned.

There is a heightened flood risk for parts of the South-West and southern England.

The Environment Agency is urging communities to prepare in advance and says people travelling over New Year should check the latest flood updates ahead of journeys. 

Motorists are also urged not to drive through floodwater.

Advice on what to do before, during and after flooding is available on the Environment Agency website or by calling Floodline on 0845-9881188.