Ryedale's roads remained under major pressure as heavy overnight rain left standing water and caused flash floods.

Saturated ground meant the rainwater had nowhere to go, and so it ran straight on to the roads.

Many routes in and out of both Malton and Norton remained cut off, and while the A64 was still open a contraflow remained in place near to the Malton bypass.

Police said they were doing their best to make sure the trunk road remained open, but admitted whether it did depended on river levels.

Elsewhere, a number of roads were described as "passable with extreme caution", while some were cut off completely.

Malton Traffic Sergeant Dave Cooper said: "Thankfully, we have not had to close too many roads - most are passable with care - but some routes, such as the route near to Settrington Beck, have had to be shut.

"Because of the closures, the A64 is under a lot of pressure but it is coping well. Although we are seeing tailbacks of up to a mile at peak times, we are making sure officers are on hand to control traffic and deal with any problems.

"We do need to keep that road open, because if it was cut off there would obviously be big problems. We will have to wait and see how the river levels go," Sgt Cooper added.

While the message from police remains "do not drive unless it is absolutely necessary", traffic officers issued advice for motorists driving in flood water:-

*If the water looks more than seven inches deep, don't risk it.

*If going through, select first gear and drive very slowly keeping revs up by slipping clutch if necessary. This stops water coming up the exhaust pipe.

*If a bow wave starts, slow down.

*If someone is approaching and causes a wave, slow down or stop until they have passed.

*If the car bonnet is going under, reverse out.

If your car stalls:-

*Select first gear. Keep feet off accelerator and clutch and turn ignition key. The car should jump 20 to 25 metres further on. If dry ground is further away, aim for nearest safe place.

*If you have to abandon your car, climb through the window instead of letting water in through the door.

*Remember to test your brakes at the other side. You can dry them by driving away with your left foot on the brake.