Communities affected by flooding are being encouraged to take advantage of a million pound relief fund.West Sussex County Council is offering a share of £1 million from its Operation Watershed fund, which helps support anti-flood projects and aids flood victims. Typical projects include clearing private ditches that have been neglected, buying or hiring equipment like shovels, waders or diggers, commission surveys and developing flood plans.

Lionel Barnard, county council cabinet member for residents’ services, said: “We want to remind people that funding is there.

“Now is the time to be doing the work in readiness for the coming winter, so if you know there is a flooding issue in your community or neighbourhood, tell us.”

For more information e-mail operation.watershed@westsussex.gov.uk or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk and type Operation Watershed in the search bar.