An Oxford resident reading the Oxford Mail blog from his holidays in New Zealand is watching closely to see whether his home is safe.

Reader Karl Sternberg said he is relieved the flood water appears to have eased.

"We live in West Oxford. But we are on holiday 13,000 miles away in the South Island of New Zealand.

“Our house is surrounded but safe. I am so pleased to read that the waters are finally receding, so I can finally sleep in New Zealand.”