WITH 2012 the wettest year since records began, concerns have been raised about Winchester's ability to deal with heavy rainfall.

At a council meeting on January 9, city councillor Eileen Berry said that some drains were even collapsing.

She also urged civic chiefs to ensure there was proper communication between the county and city councils, since drainage is the responsibility of Hampshire County Council.

β€œIt is not enough for the public to phone and report that drains are blocked, and then be told 'Sorry, the city council does not deal with blocked drains',” she said.

Council bosses acknowledged that where responsibility lies can be complicated, but insisted there are several ways that residents can report drainage problems.

A spokesman said that members of the public can report concerns by telephone or by email, adding that staff are instructed to pass any issues on to the relevant authorities.