New alliance tackles flood risk

A new body has been set up to tackle water issues and flooding concerns on Somerset's three main rivers.

Somerset County Council said climate change figures suggested an increased flood risk on the rivers Parrett, Axe and Brue.

The Water Management Partnership brings together experts who will consider how to deal with the expected challenges.

Information events are being planned for parish councils, farmers and other interested groups in the county.

Steve Dury, the council's project manager for coast, catchment levels and moors, said: "According to the latest climate change figures the risk of flooding looks to increase.

"There will be other impacts including increased risk of sediment and pollution runoff into watercourses.

"This new partnership aims to manage flood risk and water management in a more sustainable way."