Council tax payers face further misery after being warned of another increase in their payments because of flood damage.

East Sussex County Council's cabinet committee was told in October that an increase in council tax of six to eight per cent was likely in 2001/2.

But members at a meeting in Lewes were told a higher figure would have to be set because of the huge cost of the floods.

Further costs of £5 million for road repairs will hit the authority in 2002 to add to the crisis.

John Howes, county treasurer, presented a report on budget strategy to yesterday's meeting and said it could be necessary to set a higher tax rise in 2001/2.

Councillor David Rogers, leader of East Sussex County Council, said: "It seems to me that unless there are further changes to the Government's attitude particularly the funding for flood damage it will be impossible to stay within the six to eight per cent range.

"It will be a matter of judgment as to where the figure ends up."

John Howes, county treasurer, said: "It is clear that six to eight per cent would scarcely cover a standstill budget especially with the basic costs of the flood damage."

Mr Howes said the committee will be lobbying Local Government Minister Hilary Armstrong about the difficulties it is facing.

He said he would also talk to her about other additional pressures on the budget, caused by the rising number of elderly people needing care.

He estimated flood damage costs for the current year to be in the region of around £1.2 million to £1.5 million.

The committee asked officers to compile more detailed plans for tax levels before recommendations are made to the council.