SHOPS were flooded in Billericay following torrential downpours across south Essex.

Firefighters from Basildon were called to pump water from Billericay High Street between Mill Road and Potash Road after shops became submerged by half a metre of water at around 1pm.

Several stores, including the newly refurbished Waitrose supermarket and Chimichanga restaurant, had to be evacuated while the water was drained.

A spokesman from Essex Fire and Rescue service said: "Crews were called to rainwater flooding Waitrose in Billericay. On arrival the incident commander reported that there was severe flooding leaving much of the store, and seven surrounding shops, around half a metre underwater.

"Crews are using two pumps to remove the water and have reported that steady progress is being made."

Motorists are being urged to take care through the area as the rainwater has made for hazardous driving conditions.