STORMS caused extensive flooding and put drains under strain in the south of England last winter.

In Alton this manifested in the breakdown of the sewer system, with rainwater and run-off flooding the network, causing sewage to rise up through the manhole covers and drains, to pollute and contaminate everything in its path.

East Hampshire District Council's Community Forum at Alton Community Centre on October 28 attracted a large audience to listen to and question Thames Water representatives who were there to explain the problems and the steps being taken to improve the sewer system.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.