Don't travel to see high river levels in Doncaster, say police amid flood fears

Police have described the practice of sightseeing as ‘very dangerous’ and urged people to stay away from the River Don and other water courses in and around the town, which are higher than usual after heavy rain brought in by Storm Christoph.

While the height of the danger now seems to have passed, water levels are still high and the town is still on flood alert.

A police spokesman said: “We have received reports of people travelling to see the high-water levels in Doncaster.

“Not only is flood water very dangerous, we also strongly advise you not to travel if it’s not essential.

“Stay safe and if you can, stay home.”

There has been some overtopping along the River Idle near Bawtry and on the River Don at Fishlake, but the water has poured onto washland rather than residential areas.

A statement from Doncaster Council said: "It might not be raining, but it's still really important we remain vigilant to any potential flooding over the next 24 hours.

" Flood alerts are still in place for a number of villages in the borough."

The Don is reaching its peak near Fishlake, but it is understood that defences across the town have so far held firm, although a number of roads are closed because of flooding and a number of villages and suburbs are still on flood alert.