HAMPSHIRE rescuers have been called in to help after severe storms caused devastating floods across the country.

Two Hampshire water rescue teams were sent to Suffolk where 1,000 homes and businesses were threatened by fierce winds and a tidal surge.

A water rescue response team from Fareham was sent up along with a crew on the high volume pump from Hardley, Ringwood and Hythe.

Area Manager Andy Bowers said: “Can we thank all staff for their response. The way everyone worked to make things happen to support the National Coordination Advisory Framework and to respond to local incidents was exemplary.”

A fire spokesman added it was business as usual in Hampshire and flooding was not expected this weekend.

Although Hampshire was not as badly affected by the weather, several roads fell victim to floods and motorists were warned to take extra care in their cars.

Firefighters had to rescue a taxi in Blundell Road after water spread into the car and caused a breakdown. The road itself was closed.

There was also flooding outside the walls of the Abbey in Beaulieu.