A councillor has described the flooding over the weekend as the worst he has seen in 50 years.

On Saturday, December 21, following days of heavy rain, the banks of the River Roding burst.

A government flood warning was issued, as areas along the river were submerged.

Residents reported severe flooding, with roads rendered unusable, on the B172 from Abridge to Theydon Bois and the Hallsford Bridge industrial estate.

Further flooding was reported along the river from Woodford Green up as far north as Stansted Airport.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Areas of Wanstead were submerged. Photo: Cllr Paul Donovan

Areas such as Wanstead Park, Wanstead and Ilford golf courses were left overflowing with water.

The overflow of water started on Saturday. Cllr Paul Donovan said parts of Wanstead Park were “impassable”.

"I walked around the Ornamental Lake on Saturday and it was a bit like the tide coming. in all around you. In a number of areas the river water was rising to meet the lake and flowing across the parkland. I've never seen it this bad in over 50 years," said the councillor for Wanstead Village.

A flood warning remains in place for the Middle River Roding.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Parts of Wanstead Park were "impassable.": Photo: Cllr Paul Donovan

A government spokesperson said: “The River Roding has been falling steadily overnight and into this morning, Monday 23 December. We do not expect any further flooding to properties around Loughton and Buckhurst Hill. Further moderate rainfall is possible tomorrow, Tuesday, December 24.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will reissue the Flood Warning if required. Flooding to roads in the Loughton area may occur and there may be water in the River Roding floodplain for several days. A flood alert remains in force for the Middle River Roding.”