Whitby cut off by 'unprecedented' levels of flooding

The North Yorkshire town of Whitby has been hit by flash floods overnight after what's been described as unprecedented rainfall.

Police say it's been virtually cut off, with all major routes in and out affected, including the main A171, both from the south and the north west, the A169 from Sleights, and the A174 from Sandsend.

All are said to be impassable, many streets in lower lying areas are also underwater, and the fire service have been pumping out several flooded properties.

Extra police have been drafted in, and the coastguard and search and rescue teams have been mobilised.

North Yorkshire Station Manager Mark Warren said the service have been making rescues throughout the night: