Families in flood-prone parts of Mid Sussex had their sandbags at the ready today as more heavy rain bucketed down.

At storm-hit Hickmans Lane, Lindfield, families have formed a flood watch group after being hit by a series of floods since May.

This morning they were keeping a wary eye on a nearby stream which causes the floods.

Designated residents clear debris such as branches and leaves.

Lisa Talbot of Hickmans Lane said earlier today: "We keep getting flooded and we have decided to do something about it."

Mrs Talbot said: "West Sussex County Council agrees there is a problem with the drainage system but we have to wait until next year before anything can be done.

"Meanwhile we try to make sure the culvert is kept clear."

The families are regularly hit by floods and sandbags line the front of their houses.

About five miles away at Eastern Road, Wivelsfield Green, villagers also have sandbags at the ready after water from an overloaded culvert flooded into their gardens.

This morning water was building up at regular trouble spots such as America Lane and East Mascalls Lane at Walstead, near Lindfield, and Lodge Lane in Keymer.

But families at these and other problem spots, such as Appledore Gardens in Lindfield and Lower Church Road, Burgess Hill, were hoping the easing of the rain would prevent the return of more serious flooding.