Work to unblock flood-risk brook

Twenty homes were evacuated in Woodman Road

Work is beginning to unblock a brook after several homes in the West Midlands were flooded last month.

The Illey Brook in Halesowen burst its banks in September following heavy rain. Residents have complained the brook is blocked by debris.

The Environment Agency and Dudley Council is funding the work which will include removing trees and pruning any that might be in the way.

Last week, emergency staff visited the site and removed a large blockage.