Motorists have been diverted around North Bank Road since Wednesday morning, when high water levels caused by recent heavy rainfall began rising treacherously high.

The extreme levels made driving along the road dangerous so it was closed by Peterborough City Council on the advice of Environment Agency officials.

The city's pedestrians and cyclists have also been affected.

Cyclists using a cycle path behind supermarket Asda were dismayed to round the corner and find water inches deep blocking their way.

But it didn't stop some brave individuals who rolled up their trouser legs and carried on regardless.

A beauty spot near the Key Theatre in Embankment Road was flooded, with water engulfing benches and waste bins.

The River Nene also burst its banks in Fotheringhay, Oundle and Orton Mere, turning fields into sodden marshland.

A spokesman for Peterborough City Council said the North Bank road would remain closed until the water recedes and it is deemed safe for motorists by the Environment Agency.

The Environment Agency's website is updated every 15 minutes and can be found at www.environment-agency.gov.uk Alternatively, call 0845 988 1188.