RIVER levels were still rising in Worcester today, and the Environment Agency's warning that flooding is possible is still in place.

The city's Hylton Road was closed for two hours from 7pm to 9pm yesterday to allow Severn Trent Water to install pumps that accompany the flood barriers.

The footpath alongside the river by the Diglis Hotel is flooded, and pupils of the King's School were yesterday warning not to use it to get to school.

The rising waters are not set to cause problems for traffic or shoppers.

Hylton Road, St John's, which was shut for two hours yesterday evening so the Environment Agency could set up its pumps, is open tonight and traffic is flowing normally.

The Environment Agency has been giving flood warnings for the Midlands areas which have been on alert since Wednesday.

Yesterday the flood gate at New Street, Upton, was closed after the level of the Severn rose substantially. It is now holdling back flood water.

Water came up over the section of the road just outside the town, as water made its way downriver following heavy rain in Wales.

The agency said that the water level at Saxons Lode, just outside Upton, was 3.07 metres and rising. A peak level between four and four-and-half metres is expected to happen on Saturday morning.