ALMOST 20 properties were affected by flooding near Penzance yesterday afternoon.

Firefighters from Penzance tackled "severe flooding" in Long Rock and discovered that the culvert on the beach was completely blocked with five feet of sand.

This caused the nearby stream to back up into the village.

Crews used spades to dig the sand out and allow the stream to drain away to sea.

Approximately 15 properties were affectedin Gladstone Terrace around lunchtime.

Firefighters cleared flood water using a light portable pump.

Cornwall Highways and the Environment agency were also requested to attend.