Borough Hosts First Flood Fair

The event, which was organised by Ribble Valley Borough Council, featured stalls from the council's environmental health team, the Environment Agency, the National Flood Forum and building contractors specialising in flood prevention.

The stalls demonstrated a wide range of products, including floodgates, airbrick and drain covers, and water pipe sealants, as well as a wide range of information about flood prevention.

Ribble Valley Borough Council's environmental health manager, James Russell, said: "The aim of the event was to raise awareness of flooding and flood protection measures for residents and businesses in the flood-risk areas of Whalley and Ribchester.

"The event was a huge success and we hope to hold a similar event in Clitheroe later this year."

Laura Travers, community engagement officer at the Environment Agency, added: "We are delighted to have had this opportunity to talk to Whalley and Ribchester residents about how they can prepare for flooding."

Residents in Ribble Valley are reminded that flooding information can be found on the borough council's web site, which contains a link to the Environment Agency's flood maps.

It also offers advice on how to prepare for a flood and protect properties from the worst effects of flooding, make insurance claims and deal with contractors.

The web page is available at www.ribblevalley.gov.uk and the council has also produced two documents, Preparing for the Unexpected and Flooding Advice for Householders, which are available on 01200 414464.

Details of the Environment Agency's free flood warning service is available from www.environment-agency.gov.uk and the agency's flood line number is 0845 988 1188.

Pic cap 1: FAIR PLAY - Pictured from the left are James Russell, Whalley borough councillor Joyce Holgate, Laura Travers and Howard Braithwaite, assistant branch manager at builders merchant JT Atkinson.

Pic cap 2: FAIR PLAY - Pictured from the left are Howard Braithwaite, assistant branch manager at builders merchant JT Atkinson, Whalley borough councillor Joyce Holgate, Laura Travers and James Russell.