During January/February, 2007 we experienced constant rainfall, resulting in the two largest rivers in the Bournemouth area, the Stour and Avon overflowing. Fortunately, there are vast flood plains in the Christchurch area and these can flood quite considerably. The only outlet to the sea for these two rivers is through a narrow gap after leaving the Christchurch Harbour. This is locally known as 'The Run' and can obtain speeds of nine knots on either side of a tide.
