Lewes schoolchildren are being warned to stay away from flooded areas after youngsters filmed each other swimming on submerged land.

Warning posters have been put up at a conservation area in Lewes reminding people of the danger as heavy rain and winds continue to batter the county.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning for torrential rain and strong winds in Sussex today, tomorrow and Saturday.

Julie Whittaker-Jones from Sussex Police's Lewes district neighbourhood policing team said in a message to residents that parents had reported youngsters “swimming and larking around” in flood water on old railway land off Court Road in Lewes.

“Apparently the youngsters are daring each other and videoing their actively,” she said.

“We all know that youngsters want to have fun but they don't always understand the dangers until they get themselves into difficulty.

“Please talk to your children about the hazards and hidden dangers underfoot of flood water - branches and undergrowth can trap feet - and tell them about the risks of drowning and waterborne infections.”