Homeowners in East Sussex are fearful of flooding but have not taken steps to protect their homes.

A survey has revealed two-thirds have had experience of flooding and 90 per cent worry more about it now than they did 12 months ago.

The county, particularly Uckfield, Hellingly, near Hailsham, and Robertsbridge was badly hit by the devastating autumn 2000 floods.

Yet, more than eight in ten homeowners in East Sussex admit they have not taken simple steps to protect their property, such as moving valuables upstairs.

Norwich Union's Flood Fear Forecast commissioned research among 2,200 residents across the country, including 100 in East Sussex.

The study revealed almost 90 per cent of people in East Sussex said there were no flood defences in place or planned for the future to protect their property.

Almost 70 per cent did not think flood defences provided adequate protection while 87 per cent were worried sufficient progress had not been made by the Government.

One in four people in East Sussex have or would consider joining a local action group to lobby the Government about flooding.

Peter Barnett, chairman of the National Flood Forum, said: "This research shows that one in five residents have already joined or would consider joining a local flood action group.

"Our experience shows that, collectively, people can make a real difference at a local level.

"Therefore we continue to campaign for homeowners to form action groups to fight for funding for flood defences in their area.

"We believe the best way for local communities to mitigate the effects of flooding is to work in cooperation with the various agencies involved at local and national level."