A river has burst its banks in Hornchurch after heavy rain overnight, flooding a park footbridge.

The River Ravensbourne, which runs through Harrow Lodge Park in Hornchurch, has been pictured with water overflowing its banks into nearby footpaths.

The flooding has cut off a footbridge at either end - leaving it completely inaccessible - near the Harrow Lodge car park.

The footpath has been cut off either side by the floodingThe footpath has been cut off either side by the flooding (Image: Peter Barrett)

It comes after the Met Office issued a weather warning for rain, covering most of England including London and Essex.

The warning, signalling heavy rain and potential disruption to travel due to flooding, was put in place on Sunday (September 22) at 12pm and will remain in place until 11.59pm today (September 23).

Flooding at Harrow Lodge Park has prompted calls for the banks to be raised around the river, with one resident commenting on social media that "it’s about time the council did something about this".

The London Fire Brigade has warned people to keep pets and children away from flood waterThe London Fire Brigade has warned people to keep pets and children away from flood water (Image: Peter Barrett)

Havering Council have been contacted for comment.

The London Fire Brigade has issued a reminder about keeping safe during flooding.

Their advice includes being alert for weather warnings in your area, keeping pets and children away from flood water as it could be polluted, and to avoid walking through water if your property becomes flooded.