THE River Derwent has burst its banks between Workington and Cockermouth - but agencies say river levels are beginning to fall.

The county is bracing itself as Storm Gareth makes its way through the North West.

The Environment Agency said it is not currently expecting any flood warnings to be issued in the area, however they are monitoring the situation.

A spokesman said: "River and lake levels remain high but are beginning to fall as a result of heavy rainfall overnight. Consequently, the risk of flooding remains. Low lying land and roads in the Buttermere, Lorton Valley, Cockermouth, Branthwaite, Bridgefoot, Camerton, Barepot and Workington areas may be affected.

"High river levels are possible on the River Cocker, River Derwent, River Marron and their tributaries. Further showers are forecast for the rest of the day, with further heavy rainfall and strong winds expected overnight into Wednesday morning. We do not currently expect any flood warnings to be issued. We are closely monitoring the situation.

"Our incident response staff are checking defences and clearing trash screens. Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses."

A flood warning has been issued for Keswick Campsite, where lake levels have risen at the Lodore gauge as a result of persistent heavy rainfall.

For more information visit flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk