'Everyone was rushed out': Vue cinema evacuated as Kirkstall Cardigan Fields shut due to imminent flood alert

A flood warning was upgraded at Kirkstall Cardigan Fields - as the cinema and restaurants are at risk of flooding.

Leeds resident Sam Webster was watching a film when the cinema was evacuated.

She said: "Everyone has just been rushed out.

"People have been blocked from entering and police are blocking the entrance.

"There were blue flashing lights and police were walking up and down telling everyone to leave."

Sam said three police vehicles and a van were stationed at the complex.

A warning on the government website stated: "River levels are rising as a result of persistent heavy rainfall.

"Consequently, flooding of property is expected.

"We expect flooding to affect properties at the area around Cardigan Fields and Kirkstall works businesses.

"Further showers are forecast over the next 24 hours. We expect river levels to rise until 19:00 on 09/02/20.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Our incident response staff are checking defences and closely monitoring the forecast.

"Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded.

"This message will be updated by 00:45 on 10/02/2020, or as the situation changes."

The new warning comes amid another in Kirkstall - with the government warning residents to take 'immediate action'.

River levels in the area are rising as a result of persistent heavy rainfall during Storm Ciara.

A statement on the Government website stated: "River levels are rising as a result of persistent heavy rainfall.

"Consequently, flooding of property is expected.

"We expect flooding to affect properties at St Anns Mill and the Goits.

"Further showers are forecast over the next 24 hours.

"We expect river levels to rise until 19:00 on 09/02/20.

"We are closely monitoring the situation.

"Our incident response staff are checking defences and closely monitoring the forecast.

"Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded.

"This message will be updated by 00:45 on 10/02/2020, or as the situation changes."