Flood defences first of its kind in UK

New self-closing flood defences aimed at protecting 400 homes and businesses from severe flooding are being officially unveiled in Cockermouth.

The unique defence system is the first of its kind to be used in the UK.

The town was devastated by severe flooding in 2009 when the main street was submerged in water and thousands of properties were affected.

The Environment Agency contributed £3.3 million to the project, with an additional £1.1 million provided by a number of organisations including Allerdale Borough Council and Cockermouth Flood Action Group.

The Chair of Cockermouth Flood Action Group, Sue Cashmore, said:

"It's fantastic that through working in partnership we have a flood protection scheme in place that may otherwise have not been possible.

"This is the result of much hard work and I'm proud of the commitment shown by the Cockermouth Flood Action Group and local community."