POLICE have thanked motorists after heavy rain caused traffic problems throughout Teesside on Tuesday.

Heavy rain and resulting standing water meant some roads around South Bank, Grangetown and the Tees Dock area had to be closed for public safety.

Superintendent Mark Thornton, of Cleveland Police, who co-ordinated emergency services’ and other agencies’ response to the incident from Police Headquarters, said: “Over recent years Cleveland Police, in conjunction with partners, has activated plans to deal with adverse weather. 

The Northern Echo:

Flooding near Middlesbrough town centre. Picture: Incidents on Teesside and County Durham

“We, along with the Environment Agency, Cleveland Fire Brigade, the Ambulance Service and local authorities among others, work hard to ensure the public’s safety and to minimise disruption as far as possible.

“I really appreciate motorists’ patience this morning. 

“I know it is frustrating when what should be a short commute to work or journey to school ends up taking many times longer however public safety is always our absolute priority.

“The fact that we had no serious incidents or injuries reported during this period shows that the measures we had to put in place – in terms of road closures and diversions – were entirely justified and proportionate.

“In conjunction with our partner organisations, Cleveland Police is now looking ahead to the next 24 to 36 hours to assess any weather-related challenges. 

“We will continue to work hard to minimise any risks to the public from flooding and we will update the media and the public of any developments.”

In North Yorkshire, farmer Peter Mawson, videoed flooding in his fields at Farndale. The waters come from the River Dove.

"Last time it broke out was five years ago," he said. "It didn't seem that bad last night and the ground wasn't sodden either.

"The river is a trickle for the most part, normally. It's now six to seven feet deep and moving at speed. Awesome power."

Video from North Yorkshire farmer, Peter Mawson of his field in Farndale. The water originates in the River Dove. It collects water from the head of the dale and surrounding Bransdale and Westerdale Moors.