Old Bedford River, story by Chris Bishop on EA improvements around Welney Washes

Safety warning after driver is stranded on flooded Fenland road

Daisy Wallage Wednesday, December 19, 2012
5:21 PM

Fire chiefs are urging drivers to obey warning signs after a van driver was stranded on a flooded road in the Fens.

Wisbech and Littleport crews were called to Welney when the man ignored ‘road closed’ signs, went through a barrier and attempted to drive along Wash Road.

The alarm was raised just before 2.30pm today (Wednesday) and firefighters wearing dry suits used an inflatable rescue sled to carry the man to safety.

John Chelton, watch commander at Wisbech Fire Station said: “This man had driven through a road closure sign and then got stuck in flood water.

“These incidents tie up the resources of the fire service and could very easily be avoided if drivers obeyed the road closures.

“Ignoring road closures by driving through flood water is very dangerous as it is impossible to know how deep the water is and whether there are any hazards under the water that could leave you stranded.”

The crews returned to their stations by 4.20pm. Three fire crews from King’s Lynn were called, but later stood dowm.

This is the second time the A1101 across Welney Washes has been shut between the Hundred Foot Bridge and Suspension Bridge this year.

The Environment Agency has said it could remain closed for a number of weeks.