A couple have had to cancel their engagement party after floodwater and sewage poured into their home on Sunday.

The flooding happened after torrential rain during a thunderstorm which roadside drains were unable to cope with.

Lee Emery, 45, and fiancée Danielle Fenn, 38, Farm Hill Road, Waltham Abbey, had planned the celebration in their garden on August 16 but now face between three and six months out of the property.

Mr Emery said: “It’s devastating. It’s totally thrown us. It’s a horrendous time and Danielle is distraught.

“We thought it would just need a quick jet wash.”

The couple are currently staying in a hotel but may need to find a short term let while the house is refurbished.

Due to sewage entering the house the whole ground floor must be renovated including floorboards, plaster work, furniture and appliances.

It is estimated to cost hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Mr Emery added: We’ve lost our deposit on the marquee for the party as well as all the alcohol we bought for it.

“My insurance is going to go through the roof after this.”

The couple, who got engaged last month, feel Essex County Council need to act to improve drainage in the area however Mr Emery reports no work has been undertaken since Sunday.

A spokesman for Essex County Council said: “Essex Highways had six emergency crews working overnight until 4am across south and west Essex dealing with different flooding incidents.

“Work is currently being arranged that may alleviate the flooding issues in Farm Hill Road, and this work will be completed at the earliest opportunity.”

Waltham Abbey Swimming Pool in Ninefields was alos affected and was closed early on Sunday and had a delayed opening until midday on Monday.

Any individuals or businesses who would like to provide a complimentary venue for Mr Emery and Miss Fenn's engagement party can contact David Eggboro at The Guardian on 07795 316 211 or newsdesk on 01992 572 285.