West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has welcomed confirmation that the Government has triggered a range of measures to help people recover from the major floods which have hit the county.

Flood hit homes and businesses can apply for up to £5000 of funding as well as a £500 emergency hardship fund and 100 per cent council tax and business rate relief.

The funding comes as river levels continue to affect properties across the county with further rain forecast for the weekend.

Harriett held discussions with Malvern Hills District Council chief executive Jack Hegarty earlier this week regarding the need for support packages, and Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick confirmed the news in an announcement last night.

Harriett said: “The flooding still poses a serious risk but some areas, like Tenbury, are already well advanced in their clear up operation.

“Flooding is terrible and having spoken to many people who have gone through events like this in the last decade, I know it is important to see the Government stepping in with emergency support.

“I’ll be working closely with the local authorities to make sure local people get the right level of support and we keep our fingers crossed that the river levels subside very soon.

“I’m also willing to support people who may be having trouble with their insurers and I’ll be visiting the flood affected areas to show my support and offer whatever help I can.”