River Mersey flood defence repair work completed

The river reached its highest level in 66 years during the floods

Repairs to defences on embankments along a stretch of river that was battered by heavy flooding in Manchester have been completed following months of disruption for walkers.

The work started after the deluge forced hundreds of people across the Didsbury and Northenden areas in the south of the city to evacuate their homes on New Year's Day.

The Environment Agency said it had repaired damaged sections of the river, which reached its highest level in 66 years during the floods, and improved erosion protections.

The agency said flood protection had now been returned to "316 homes and businesses in Didsbury and the surrounding communities".

The work led to parts of the river being cordoned off, including around the popular Fletcher Moss area, and several footbridges.

Embankments along the River Mersey have been repaired

The agency's flood risk manager Jamie Dixon said: "We know how devastating flooding can be, and we've worked hard to restore protection for the community as quickly and safely as possible.

"These embankments are a vital part of the local flood defence system, and the repairs will help reduce the risk of flooding from the River Mersey in future storms."

The agency said about 6.3 million homes and businesses were at risk of flooding and reminded people to sign up for flood warnings.