Trolleys and traffic cones recovered after Chelmsford's waters are "drained down"

Trolleys were rescued from the depths of Chelmsford's waters today after the River Chelmer was drained down.

From Wednesday lunchtime, the water level of the river - where the Cans meets the River Chelmer between the County Records Office and Baddow Road Car Park - was dropped by 5 per cent every 15 minutes.

By lunchtime today it was at its lowest, unveiling traffic cones, trees and rotting trolleys.

The work, completed by the Environment Agency, is done every 10 years and on this particular occasion because Chelmsford's water gate is being re-structured next year.

David Knagg, operations manager at the Environment Agency, said: "The work we have planned to refurbish the water control structure in the river is essential for ensuring that the level of flood risk for Chelmsford is not increased."

He added: "The rivers through Chelmsford are also a great amenity enjoyed by many so we will be in discussions with groups who use the rivers about our work."

Catchment manager Matt Butcher said in a video, posted on twitter, that the work was done to  "protect the people of Chelmsford".

The river will be at its normal level by tomorrow (Friday) lunchtime.