GLOUCESTERSHIRE'S fire and rescue crews and highways teams have had a busy few days after high winds and intense rain fall hit the county.

The county’s highway teams have been monitoring the situation carefully and crews already on winter standby were ready to respond to any weather related incidents.

Their focus has been clearing drains and fallen trees, while evenings have seen temperatures drop and the gritters out.

It has also been a busy time for fire and rescue teams with incidents ranging from a road traffic collision in Upper Slaughter to a lamb stranded due to flood water in Tewkesbury on Christmas Day.

Crews have also been responding to several road collisions in the county today.

The weather is forecast to be brighter into the weekend with occasional showers, but the nights will be colder so Gloucestershire Highways will be out gritting the major routes in advance of freezing temperatures.

Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood, said: “Our road crews put in tremendous effort to keep the county moving.

"I would like to thank crews for their dedication braving the weather so we can go about our daily lives, especially over the Christmas period.”

Will Windsor Clive, cabinet member for fire, planning and infrastructure, said: “Our fire and rescue crews continue to be fully prepared to respond to help keep the county safe.

"Please drive carefully, check your journey and don’t drive through flood water.”

To report any issues on the roads visit gloucestershire.gov.uk/reportit or call 08000 514 514.

Weather response updates will be posted on Twitter via @GlosHighways and @GlosCC.