Environment Agency chairman to visit flood victims after returning from Caribbean holiday

The chairman of the Environment Agency is travelling to meet flood victims in the north of England after returning from a holiday in the Caribbean.

Sir Philip Dilley has faced criticism for holidaying in Barbados with his family while parts of the UK is facing severe flooding.

Leaving his home in London today, he told reporters: "My focus really is to go and see what's happening, to see the good work that's been going on but most importantly to see the communities that have been affected."

Asked whether he could have managed the situation better from the UK rather than "the beach", Sir Philip said he had been in "very close contact" with senior EA staff during his holiday.

"Everybody can't be everywhere at the same time. I think we've been very effective and efficient in what we've been doing. There's obviously some lessons to learn," Sir Philip added.

He said his itinerary would "evolve" as the day went on.