Relief for rivers as rain returns

Rivers levels in Dumfries and Galloway are beginning to recover after rain finally arrived in the region.

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The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has downgraded the Annan, Nith, Dee and Cree catchment areas from "moderate scarcity" to "alert" level after the warm, dry spell came to an end.

However, the recovery may only be temporary and, even with recent rain, groundwater remains low in many places.

SEPA’s head of environmental performance, Kenny Boag, said: "We've had rain in some areas but not widespread recovery.

"There has been some relief in parts of the west but for many river catchments the long-term deficit remains.