The excess water in the Cotswolds has today caused the winter-bourne' or dry river bed to flow with water through the centre of The National Arboretum in Westonbirt, Gloucestershire.

This interesting natural phenomenon is due to the overflow from the underground stream or river that runs through the limestone of this South Cotswold area.

John Weir, Director of Arboreta says Although our plant centre has flooded, this is very interesting to see. We often have a flood in the valley when there is excess rain but nothing like this has happened in at least ten years. The good news is that our canine friends are having a wail of a time!' The flooding is affecting access to Silk Wood so we advise visitors to check that it is still accessible before travelling.

The National Arboretum is still open to visitors, although we would ask that any visitors wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The Plant Centre is temporarily closed due to the flooding.