RESIDENTS of Binstead were among those most affected by flooding on the Isle of Wight yesterday (Sunday) as more than a month of rainfall was recorded over the course of a few hours.

People living in areas such as Gordon Close and Cemetery Road suffered damage to their homes and belongings, with fences and garages destroyed in several cases.

Paul, who lives on Cemetery Road, was one of those whose home was affected as water levels began to rise in the area.

He said: "It's happened several times here in recent years.

"There's a stream which runs around the back of the houses and doesn't clear the water quickly enough, so all the sewage came out and went through people's homes.

"Water in our kitchen was about waist deep - just under the counter tops - damaging the washing machine and filling the oven. It's taken our shed out and knocked our fences down.

"The fire brigade arrived very quickly and the community came together to help each other, with everyone helping to clear each others' houses out and offer support."

Sarah, who moved to the area earlier this year was in philosophical mood despite furniture and a slew of possessions being strewn across her lawn today.

She said: "We've only been here for four months and were assured past flooding issues had been resolved when we moved here.

"The community spirit helped everyone to keep going and nobody was hurt so we need to look at the positives, everything else is material. It's not nice but it's an act of nature."

One resident of Gordon Close, who asked not to be named, said water levels rose dramatically within minutes and all of the back paths soon went from being slightly damp to absolutely flooded.

Several people reported their cars suffering damage, while the lack of readily available sandbags - the nearest supply being in Simeon Street, Ryde - caused consternation with both residents and Councillor for the area, Ian Dore.

Southern Water and other relevant agencies such as Island Roads have been contacted regarding the situation.