ELDERLY residents are having to battle with persistent flooding when heavy rainfall occurs.

Rishton councillors said recent wet weather had highlighted the problem in Cliff Street which floods on a regular basis and leaves a large deep puddle outside the sheltered bungalows.

They have also raised awareness about a large puddle which has been forming on a regular basis during wet weather on a stretch of road along Parker Street.

Lancashire County Council said it responds to reports of issues with drains within 20 working days and urgent issues can be dealt with sooner.

Cllr Jeff Scales, who represents Rishton on Hyndburn Council, said it is important anyone who notices any problems reports it straight to the county council.

He said: “There have been some persistent problems.

“The system we have to sort out the problem is pretty good,” said Cllr Scales.

“At this time of year you can get a lot of leaves and dirt and rubbish which can get caught in the drains.

“It is really, really important we report these sort of issues.

“It can help with trying to push them along and get repaired.

“It’s about recognising people have this sort of thing going on so it can get sorted as soon as possible.”

Cllr Scales also said residents need to help as the county council is having to face the ‘massive effects of serious cuts’.

Residents at sheltered accommodation in Eachill Gardens in Rishton faced similar problems in the past.

The Lancashire Telegraph reported last year that elderly residents had been complaining for 18 months of flooding problems on the estate after their front pathways suffered inches of standing water after heavy rainfall.

County Hall bosses said they were keen for anyone to come forward to them if they are aware of any issues.

A spokesman for Lancashire County Council said: “Generally we respond to reports of blocked drains within 20 working days.

“Obviously if it is more serious we can send someone sooner,” the spokesman said

“If there are problems we would like to know about them.

“The best way to report the problems is to call our customer service number.”

Anyone with any issues to report should contact www.lancashire.gov.uk/council/get-involved/contact.aspx.