WEEKS of constant and heavy rainfall has led to 38 homes across the Cotswolds succumbing to internal flooding, according to the district council.

Officials at Cotswold District Council have identified South Cerney and Bibury as some of the worst areas to be affected by overflowing rivers and rising groundwater levels.

However the council has advised, based on information from the Environment Agency, that river levels have probably peaked but still remain sensitive to any further rainfall.

Despite nearly 40 homes being infiltrated by water, CDC has said that it has not yet had to open any of its rest centres for displaced residents but that several locations remain on standby.

Cllr David Fowles, CDC cabinet member for environment, said: “It is always distressing to see flooding in parts of the district and my sympathies go out to those who have been affected.

“I am relieved to see that the rain has eased off and that river levels are now dropping but, it is clear that problems remain with parts of the sewer network.”

Thames Water has said that a significant amount of rainwater in the sewers has led to a number of properties in Cirencester and South Cerney being affected by raw sewage.

Anthony Crawford, head of waste networks at the water firm, admitted that Thames Water’s sewers are not able to cope with the heavy rainfall.

“We are closely monitoring river levels and are working extremely hard to manage sewer levels in key areas. We are working around the clock and doing our best in difficult circumstances,” he said.

Mr Crawford continued by saying that Thames Water extra funding has been made available to the Cotswold district to prevent such incidents occurring in the future.

“Our priority right now is to assist customers who have suffered sewer flooding inside their homes. As soon as water levels reduce, we will thoroughly assess the affected areas.”

While many homes fell victim to the floods, Cllr Fowles explained that improved flood defences in many towns and villages have saved residents from unwanted misery.

“These schemes have really made a difference and many residents have commented favourably on the enhanced capability to withstand floods,” he said.

Cllr Fowles also thanked volunteers from the 23 communities across the district who came forward to assist CDC in its response to the floods.

Anyone concerned about flooding can CDC on 01285 623000 or by visiting www.cotswold.gov.uk.