A houseboat has sunk following a storm that caused widespread flooding across Sussex.

The RNLI in Newhaven reported that the vessel which had been moored near a bridge over the River Ouse in Lewes had become “unleashed” as rivers became swollen due to heavy rain overnight.

The houseboat could be seen partially submerged as it was carried away by the torrent of water.

It comes as 20 cars were left stranded by floodwater on a stretch of the A27 near Chichester.

Police have urged motorists to be careful on roads when travelling around Sussex due to standing water and flooding in some areas.

Parts of Sussex received more than 50mm or two inches of rain in just 24 hours, including Haywards Heath, Balcombe Forest, Plumpton, Ashington and Storrington.

Weather conditions are expected to be more settled for the rest of the week, with clear conditions and sunshine forecast for Brighton until at least Sunday.