THE Territorial Army is on stand-by at Upton-upon-Severn, where river levels are expected to rise further following overnight rain.

Worcester's Royal Artillery 214 Battery has already carried out two rescues in the town, where several roads have been flooded.

"We'll remain here as long as we're requested," said Capt Dave Morgan of the TA.

"It's early days yet, but unlike the last lot of flooding, we're only placed in Upton.

"We're on stand-by to help out in any other area, such as with the evacuation of patients at the Castle Street hospital should that be necessary."

The TA troops were due to be joined this afternoon by 20 Army personnel from the Royal Welch Fusiliers, who are based near flood-hit Shrewsbury.

The Environment Agency said the River Severn was hit by up to half-an-inch of rain in the Worcester area last night.

But rainfall in the Welsh mountains, which ends up in the River Severn, was up to one inch.

"Residents can expect further property flooding. There is a severe flood warning in place," said an Environment Agency regional office spokesman.

The flood levels currently stand at 5.25 yards, which are at a similar level to the floods of last month.

"Upton is experiencing a long peak. It will rise only slightly, but levels will remain at this height for the rest of the week," said the EA spokesman.