WEST DORSET: Flood defences have been repaired by the Environment Agency to help stop a repeat of last winter’s torrential rain.

The agency has completed a record number of repairs to flood defences across Dorset and is urging communities to make sure they are prepared if flooding happens again this year.

At Freshwater beach, the river banks at the mouth of the River Bride have been reinforced with rock amour to prevent the force of incoming waves eroding the banks.

At Chesil beach, the Environment Agency has worked with local authorities to repair the sea wall and re-profile the beach – replacing 150,000 cubic metres of shingle washed away in the winter storms. Repairs have also been made to the Gabion Castle and the Monsoon Drain.

Ron Curtis, from the Environment Agency, said: “By working closely with our partners, we’ve completed a really ambitious schedule of repairs.

“This work not only protects local people and businesses but represents real value for money.

“Our defences are now back to their pre-storm condition and, in some cases, are in better condition than before.”

The Environment Agency has handed out protection advice to residents concerned about flooding.

People can prepare a personal flood plan, use the Environment Agency’s maps to find out if you are at risk of flooding or sign up for free flood warnings.

For more information, log onto gov.uk/check-if-youre-at-risk-of-flooding