UNFOUNDED rumours about the effects of the floods are causing unnecessary panic among homeowners and increasing the strain on the police.

A spokeswoman for Worcester police said that speculation had spread across the city about flood levels and "at risk" areas, causing an influx of calls from concerned people.

"There have been reports that have worried a lot of people," said the spokeswoman, Fiona Harrison. "People are predicting when high water levels will reach certain places and that is concerning others.

"We'd appreciate it if people would wait until the official officers announce what will definitely happen.

"We've received a lot of calls and this is increasingly stretching our resources at an already busy time."

Weather experts were forecasting 70mph winds and a further two-and-a-half inches of rain to hit Worcester during tomorrow and Monday.

The police were also warning people not to abuse the shuttle service provided by the Territorial Army to ferry people from St John's into the city.

"People are using the service unnecessarily," said Mrs Harrison. "It's being provided for people who need to go into the city for work or for professional appointments.

"However, we've had people trying to get on the shuttle service because they want to go shopping.

"If this type of abuse continues the TA will be forced to pull out."

First Midland Red has set up an emergency bus service from St John's to the city centre via Temeside, which was due to run today and on Monday and Tuesday from 7am-6.30pm.

Tybridge Street, Hylton Road and New Road remained closed in Worcester today, though there may be some access for frontages. Castle Street was also shut.

Sightseers have been urged to keep away from flooded areas to avoid hampering the emergency services.