But Burton upon Trent, where residents in critical areas were last night advised to evacuate their homes, escaped serious flooding as levels on the river fell.

BBC: Floods 'unlikely to ease soon'

Bishop Annas claimed the move would have "huge implications" for people living in the town, who would have to travel to Stoke-on-Trent, Wolverhampton or Burton-upon-Trent for their care if the proposals went ahead.

BBC: Stafford Hospital services 'needed for rising numbers'

Eton Park Junior School in Burton-upon-Trent was closed due to the weather and roads around the town were closed due to flooding, Staffordshire County Council said.

BBC: The stone bridge in Tamworth??s Castle Grounds