The Thames could flood city again

The western part of Oxford was badly hit by the July 2007 floods

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for the River Thames through Oxford, which was badly hit by last summer's floods.

Pumps and emergency flood defences are being moved into the city.

The agency has warned that Botley Road could be flooded at about 2200 GMT and Osney Island later in the week.

Flood warnings, the second highest state of alert which means flooding is expected, is also in place for the River Thame and the River Ray.

If the Thame floods it could affect Dorchester, Moreton, Waterstock and Wheatley, as well as Chippinghurst and Drayton St Leonard.

As things stand there is no cause for alarm John Kelly, emergency planning officer

The flood warning on the River Ray covers Islip, Ludgershall and Blackthorn, as well as Murcott, Wendlebury and Odington.

A second flood warning is also in place on the River Thames from Eynsham Lock in Eynsham to Sandford Lock in Sandford-on-Thames.

John Kelly, Oxfordshire County council's emergency planning officer, said sandbags and flexible flood barriers are being distributed in the western side of the city.

But Mr Kelly said it was only precautionary measures and he does not want residents to panic as it is an "unconfident warning".

"We saw in during the July 2007 floods how situations can change quickly.

"We'd like people to be as prepared as possible and studying our standard advice will help.

"Let's hope that water levels don't rise to the extent that large numbers of people will need to deploy our advice.

"As things stand there is no cause for alarm."

However, residents are being warned to be ready to leave their homes if that becomes necessary.

They are also being urged to move their vehicles to higher ground, put valuables and documents somewhere safe and to be prepared turn off gas, electricity and water supplies.