£18m flood defence work complete

The Environment Agency said the defences would better protect homes

Flood defences aimed at protecting more than 2,500 homes in North Yorkshire have been completed.

The defences, which cost £18m and took four years to build, will improve flood protection for homes in Selby from the River Ouse.

Selby and nearby areas were badly affected by floods in 2000 when the Ouse burst its banks.

MP John Grogan marked the work's completion by unveiling a celebration plaque at the amphitheatre in Millgate.

He said: "I think people can be assured that they've got the best possible protection and the insurance companies aren't daft, you know they are insuring people in Selby and Barly because they realise we've got the best possible protection."

Existing flood banks and walls have been raised and, in some areas, new defences have been built.