Reading MP calls for more help for flood-hit residents

Flooding around Reading earlier this month caused misery for some residents

An MP has called on the government to do more to tackle flooding in Reading.

Matt Rodda, Labour MP for Reading East, said he was asking ministers to provide more support after recent flooding in the Berkshire town had taken "a huge toll" on residents and properties.

Large parts of the county were affected earlier this month after a deluge of rain saw rivers burst their banks.

The government said it was "acutely aware" of the recent weather's impact and was providing financial support.

Mr Rodda said: "Large areas of Reading were flooded in recent weeks, and obviously this is taking a huge toll on many residents, properties have been threatened and in some cases flooded.

"I am asking for people to talk to me about the issues they are facing, and I'm calling on the government to do more to help people whose homes are liable to flooding or at risk of flooding."

He urged residents to make suggestions to him so he could raise the issue in Parliament.

A spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) said: "We are acutely aware of the impacts of recent extreme weather and have announced further financial support for eligible areas in England that have experienced exceptional localised flooding."

This support included support for eligible property owners who can apply for up to £5,000 to help make their homes and businesses more resilient to future flooding, the spokesperson added.

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