An area of Bolton will be monitored by the Environmental Agency today after it warned that flooding is possible.

Earlier this week there were concerns around the River Irwell with Kearsley among the areas believed to be at risk.

However this warning was removed yesterday.

The Environmental Agency is now concerned with the River Douglas, with Blackrod among the areas where it has said flooding is a possibility.

An update into this is expected at 9am.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Agency said yesterday : "Areas most at risk include The River Douglas from Horwich Star Vale to Appley Bridge including Adlington, Blackrod, Wigan, Standish, and Gathurst. Flooding is possible at The River Douglas from Horwich Star Vale to Appley Bridge including Adlington, Blackrod, Wigan, Standish, and Gathurst from 07:00 PM on 02/01/2024.

"Further rainfall is forecast this evening, so river levels are expected to remain high.

"We are monitoring rainfall and river levels and are checking rivers for blockages in the area.

"Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water."

Elsewhere residents of south Manchester near the River Mersey have been told to act imminently after torrential downpour has created a higher risk of flooding.