Council launches investigation into severe flooding

Storms in November and October caused flooding across the UK

A council has launched an investigation into recent extreme flooding on the Isle of Wight.

Roads, homes and businesses were submerged on the island as a result of Storm Babet and Storm Ciaran in October and November.

For the first part of the investigation, Isle of Wight Council is asking residents and businesses affected by the floods, or involved in the response, to submit evidence.

Natasha Dix, director of waste, environment and planning at the council, said the information was "crucial" and would help prevent similar floods in future.

The work is being carried out under the requirements of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.

Ms Dix said it was "essential to look into the causes and impacts" of the flooding.

"Many residents were adversely affected and much distress and damage to properties resulted," she said.

People who have already applied for flood recovery grants do not need to complete the forms as their information and evidence has already been processed, the council said.

Residents are being encouraged to fill in the forms on the council website before the deadline on 22 December.