AS the rain crashed down, the flood defences went up in Cockermouth - and the community came out in force.

Traders and residents throughout the town dug out their flood defences earlier this week as news of heavy downpours came in and the rivers rose at worrying rates.

While the rivers Cocker and Derwent burst their banks yesterday, flooding nearby fields and parks, most properties remained dry inside.

There was some flooding at Southwaite Mill, just outside the town. And two ground floor flats in Hatters Croft, off South Street, were flooded last night as the ever-increasing River Cocker raged past nearby.

Residents were up from 2.30am pumping surface water back into the river. They were assisted by members of Cockermouth Emergency Response Group (CERG) and the EA.

CERG, which was created following the 2015 floods, has been working hard to support those in need.

"Board members and Jo Crozier in particular have been active overnight fielding calls from concerned residents," said a spokesman.

"We have also been on the streets since early morning checking river levels and delivering the CERG pumps  to South Street following calls from anxious residents about rising surface water on the road.  

"Board members were able to set up the pumps and show residents how to use them.

"We opened the Operations Control Centre at Christ Church rooms around 11.30am and put a call out to volunteers. 

"Over 60 turned out and knocked on all doors in flood zones giving warnings/updates and advice. 

"The WI turned up to serve teas and coffees and a further 25 volunteers turned up but weren’t needed at that time. 

"The rivers are  running high and fast and we continue to keep a very close eye on the situation."

On Main Street, Toy Shop owner Fiona Chippendale said this morning: "It was all a bit hairy. We were nervous yesterday but now it has peaked we're feeling calmer."

Husband Jonty said: "I'm very pleased with the performance of the flood defences. Without them there would be a lot of people flooded this morning.

"Also CERG have been really on the ball and helping people out."

The Chippendales put their flood defences up yesterday. Following previous floods in 2009 and 2015, the couple have installed solid floors, waterproof flooring, a sump and pump. There electric is also all up at ceiling height.

"We were not overly worried but thought it would be good practice to get the defences up," said Jonty.

"A lot of people had not had them out of their boxes for a couple of years. It doesn't hurt to have a flood drill.

"There's nothing to suggest it's going to get any worse.

"Although my head says one thing my heart makes me check the river every 10 minutes."

Dawn Iredale, of Fagans, across the road, said: "We're obviously nervous when there's a downpour like this. We shall take all the precautions just in case."