A flood warning was issued today as Sussex recovered from an overnight battering from heavy winds and torrential rain.

More than 30mm of rain fell as a storm front swept eastwards across the UK.

The Environment Agency issued a flood warning on one of the region's most vulnerable stretches of river and warned strong winds could bring down more trees and debris, leading to flooding.

The flood warning for the River Ouse from Isfield to Barcombe was one of five issued across the South.

The agency also issued 19 flood watches - its lowest level of warning, meaning homeowners need to remain on guard although the flood risk is low - including seven in East Sussex. Rivers affected included the Cuckmere, the Ouse and the Uck.

It warned last night's rain had fallen into river catchments already swollen by yesterday's downpour.

Agency staff have been busy ensuring the region's flood defences are in good condition and that there are no blockages on rivers or streams.

Flood-prone areas such as Lewes, Uckfield and Chichester are being closely monitored with the bad weather expected to continue throughout the week.