PEOPLE in Sale, Altrincham, Stretford and Urmston were put on flood alert on Tuesday after torrential rain, amid fears that middle River Mersey and Sinderland Brook could burst their banks.

Officials at the rivers watchdog the Environment Agency issued a Flood Watch warning - but .the areas were given the all clear at 2pm on Wednesday.

The danger has not disappeared, though, as more heavy rain is forecast over the next few days.

A Flood Watch means flooding of low lying land and roads is expected.

Other areas which were given the all clear following Flood Watches include Bramhall, Stockport, Gatley, Cheadle Hulme and Cheadle.

Heavy rain has affected most of the country. Nationally there were 72 flood warnings and 168 flood watches in place as Messenger went to press. The all clear was given in 123 areas.

A concerned resident who lives near one of Trafford's affected areas, Sinderland Brook, on the border of Sale and Broadheath, said she had never seen the water at such a high level.

She said: "It is quite frightening. The brook is brimming with water and flowing very fast. I was calf deep in water on a footpath.

"They should put warning signs up - if anyone fell in you would never see them again."

She added: "What plans are set up and available in Trafford for the residents should there be a flood?

"Who do we contact and what sort of safety back up and support is there in Trafford for the residents?"

A council spokeswoman said they were in regular contact with the Environment Agency about the situation. In the event of a flood they would evacuate people to a reception centre, but they do not believe that will be necessary.

cgriffin@ messengernewspapers.co.uk