Rogue traders targeting Rhyl flood victims

Inshore lifeboats were used to ferry people from their flooded homes in Rhyl

Police and trading standards have launched a clamp down following reports of rogue traders targeting people hit by flooding in Rhyl.

Denbighshire council says officials are aware some "cowboys" were looking to "exploit the damage and devastation" after the floods earlier this month.

The authority rehoused 54 people while others are staying with family and friends, unable to return home until after Christmas.

About 150 Rhyl homes suffered flooding.

And 400 people were evacuated from their homes when a storm surge sent waves of water pouring down streets near the seafront on 5 December affecting areas along the north Wales coast.

Public protection manager Emlyn Jones said: "We have seen examples of traders operating in the area and some may try and take advantage of the victims of the floods in Rhyl.

"This is an upsetting time for all those who have suffered damage to their homes, and we don't want anyone to be taken advantage of whilst in this vulnerable state.

"The council's trading standards team and officers from North Wales Police have been monitoring activities in the area, offering advice to residents and providing words of advice to those offering services."

He said previous floods in the UK attracted doorsteps fraudsters offering a range of flood recovery services and other assistance including garden clearance as well as driveway, guttering and roof cleaning.

Acting Insp Aled Eynon at Rhyl Police station said extra patrols and mobile CCTV cameras would remain in force to police properties affected by flooding while the clean-up continues to "reassure the residents and to deter any would-be criminals".

Homes have been left damaged by the flood water