MOTORISTS have been asked to avoid driving through areas of Appleshaw when they are flooded - or drive very carefully.

Members of the Appleshaw and Redenham Flood Advisory Group say they are puzzled by a 'lack of consideration' shown by some drivers for residents of Cleaver Cottages and the houses in Barncroft.

An article in this month's Appleshaw, Redenham and Clanville News (ARC) points out that during the floods there were at least two other dry routes in and out of the village. But some people insisted on driving through the flood water, which caused waves to cover anything in their path.

"The effect is that the wash spills over the fragile flood defences into the houses and sends debris everywhere," says the article.

Hampshire County Council did not shut the road because so many people ignored the signs during the previous floods and the council cannot enforce the closure.

Householders have also been asked not to be tempted to drain or pump any groundwater directly into the sewer during floods.

The article says: "The result will be unpleasant for your neighbours as you will only push your problem onto them. If you must pump then do so directly into the ditch of elsewhere onto your property."

The advisory group thanked everyone who helped clear debris out of the ditches to ensure a free flow during the floods.