Nottingham couple 'trapped in caravan with cats and chickens' after River Trent bursts its banks

Dramatic aerial photographs show how a caravan park has been completely cut off by floodwater after a major incident was declared in Nottinghamshire.

Residents were evacuated from their static homes after the River Trent’s water levels rose to near-record levels in the aftermath of Storm Henk.

Other elderly people were rescued by firefighters at Radcliffe Residential Park when the site became completely marooned following heavy rainfall.

Read more: Weather in Nottingham

The widespread flooding has also left some locals unable to leave their homes amid 'disaster-like movie' scenes at the estate for over-55s.

"Worst flooding we have ever known"

Apprenticeship tutor Sue Oosthuizen, 63, and husband Hans, 65, are currently trapped in their caravan with their cat and two pet chickens.

She said: "We're completely cut off from all sides and it's the worst flooding we have ever known here.

"The only way you can get in and out is with waders as the water is at least two metres in deep in most places. Several of our neighbours needed to be evacuated, including one poorly elderly neighbour. The electricity has gone in some homes too, we're lucky ours hasn't.

"We also have two pet chickens, Agnes and Precious, who are now in the house with us as well as our 12-year-old cat Peppi. We moved them indoors when we saw the water levels rising. The fact we're on stilts has saved the water from coming into our home.

"We just hope the levels will start to subside now. Although we're stranded, we've had lots of help and support from the community."

"Like something from a disaster movie"

Another local resident, Phil Walker, 55, added: "I've never know anything like it, the whole site has become an island. People were marooned and couldn't get out.

"It just got higher and higher, it was quite frightening and like something from a disaster movie. You've got to feel for the people at the bottom nearest the river as they will have suffered some nasty damage I imagine. It is really concerning."

Nottinghamshire County Council said a major incident had been declared along the River Trent due to flooding and the risk of further flooding.

River could reach record-breaking levels

A spokesperson added: "Latest forecasts are currently showing that peaks along the River Trent could come close to the highest levels on record from the year 2000 and so Nottinghamshire County Council and its partner agencies are advising residents in areas along the Trent Valley to be prepared for flooding.

"Residents who live in the flood risk areas are being asked to ensure they have preparations in place in case they are asked to evacuate. Councils, emergency services and the Environment Agency have been providing emergency support to communities impacted and will continue to provide support across the county."

A total of 36 flood warnings from the Environment Agency remained in place across the East Midlands today (Fri).

Words and photos by SWNS.