NUCLEAR power plant workers are being told to return home due to heavy rainfall flooding parts of Cumbria.

A spokesman for the West Cumbrian power plant Sellafield issued a statement online advising people to only travel if strictly necessary.

The warning comes after the county was battered with heavy rainfall and flooding.

A spokesman for Sellafield said: "Cumbria Police say the threat of flooding in Cumbria remains high and are advising people to only travel if strictly necessary and to take pre-emptive action to protect themselves.

"We are therefore advising our Cumbria employees currently at work to discuss immediately with their line managers and return home if possible, having checked local media for road disruption before setting off. 

"People travelling to the south of site should be aware that the closure of the A595 at Duddon Bridge / Santon Bridge / Holmrook means they would need to travel via the A66 and M6 south.

"Millom is currently reported to be unreachable by road.

"There is also disruption and delays to the rail network, with services on the Cumbrian Coastal Line now suspended for the day - please check for advice on bus replacements.

"Shift co-ordinators will maintain Minimum Safety Manning Levels in plants, but others should head home once clarified with their line managers.

"Our buses are still operating to facilitate people leaving workplaces.

"Our automated message line on 0845 0551233 will give updates on the site status – please check this and our social media channels before planning any return to work."