Animals Moved as "No Stopping" Floodwaters Engulf Farm

Persistent heavy rainfall in Herefordshire has led to severe flooding, compelling a local farmer to relocate his livestock to higher ground. Chris Golding of Pinford Farm described the situation as relentless, with water inundating fields and cattle sheds. This year's rainfall in England has already surpassed 110% of the typical winter average, with some locations experiencing rain for over 40 consecutive days since the start of the year.

The farmer is concerned for his cows and sheep, noting their discomfort in the wet and cold conditions and the necessity of providing them with dry areas for rest and feeding. He has spent recent weekends sandbagging his home and pumping water from barns, having already moved cattle that were knee-deep in water in one shed.

Golding also pointed to new housing developments in the area, suggesting that reduced permeable land is exacerbating water runoff issues. This combination of intense rainfall periods and urban development presents significant challenges for agricultural operations. Meanwhile, eight flood warnings are active in Worcestershire for sections of the River Severn and Avon, underscoring the widespread impact of the adverse weather across the region.