West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin toured local flood defences on Saturday to thanks Environment Agency staff working round the clock to man the pumps. The MP visited Upton-upon-Severn and Kempsey flood defences to talk to EA staff who have been monitoring flood water levels over the Christmas and New Year holiday periods. Exactly a year ago, Environment Secretary Owen Paterson visited Upton to see the permanent flood defences in operation in the town, protecting hundreds of homes and businesses. The UK government has been able to invest billions - more money than ever before over the course of this parliament - to tackle the risk of flooding. It has also committed to providing the Environment Agency with an above-inflation increase of £5 million on their floods maintenance work in 2015 and 2016. Harriett commented: “I am pleased that the £9 million spent on six new flood defences across West Worcestershire since 2010 are working correctly and protecting hundreds of homes and businesses. I was keen to thank the Environment Agency staff who have worked round the clock over the festive period. “This is the second year in a row that staff have had to work day and night in dreadful weather conditions and I know that local people whose homes are protected by defences are grateful for their efforts. I will also be working with EA management to make sure these vital front line jobs remain when savings are made. “This week the Water Bill is progressing in Parliament, which will ensure flood insurance is widely available and affordable for years to come.”