Macclesfield residents have been warned of potential flooding.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the River Bollin catchment.

This includes the Rivers Bollin, Dean and Pedley as well as the Birkin and Mobberley Brooks and their tributaries.

Areas around Macclesfield, Bollington, Hale, Knutsford and Wilmslow may all be affected.

Flooding is possible from 4pm on Tuesday, December 31.

The Environment Agency website states: "Rising river levels overnight may lead to flooding.

"Areas most at risk include low lying land and roads around the Rivers Bollin, Dean and Pedley, Birkin and Mobberley Brooks and their tributaries.

"We are monitoring rainfall and river levels and checking flood defences.

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"Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses."

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain covering all of Cheshire East.

Residents have been warned of difficult driving conditions, potential road closures, possible power cuts and the chance of flooding to homes and businesses.

"Beginning on New Year's Eve, persistent and at times heavy rainfall is expected as a band of rain becomes slow-moving across the region, accompanied by strong south-westerly winds which will gust 50-60 mph in places," reads the Met Office website.

"This rain then clears slowly southwards later on Wednesday morning.

"30-50 mm rain is expected fairly widely, with 50-100 mm across west-facing hills.

"There is a chance a few locations could see in excess of 100 mm during the event, with north Wales the most likely region to see these larger totals."

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has shared a warning to those preparing to welcome in the New Year with a bang.

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"We are advising anyone thinking of lighting a fire outdoors or setting fireworks off to be mindful of the dangers," said a CFRS spokesperson.

"The Met Office has issued windy conditions this evening, meaning flames can easily change direction and fire will quickly spread.

"Please celebrate New Year safely."

A Cheshire East Council spokesperson added: "Heavy rain and strong winds are expected to arrive in Cheshire East later tonight and yellow weather warnings are in place.

"Our officers are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to respond to any weather-related emergencies.

"Please take extra care on the roads and drive to the conditions.

"If you spot any urgent issues on our network that present danger, please report this to us on our out of hours number: 0300 123 5025.

"Non-emergencies should be reported to us at fixmystreet.cheshireeast.gov.uk."

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