Flood victims urged to watch out for unsolicited phone calls from people claiming to be insurers

People who have lost their belongings and seen their homes devastated by flooding are being urged to watch out for suspicious phone calls.

South Wales Police says it has received reports of victims getting phone calls from people claiming to be insurance companies.

Hundreds of houses and businesses across south Wales have been left decimated by the extreme stormy weather.

South Wales Police warned people on social media to be cautious if they receive a call from anyone alleging to be from an insurance company.

They advise that "if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always question it."

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said it had also received reports of suspicious requests for flood relief donations.

It has advised residents to "always ask for identification" from anyone collecting or asking for donations.

In many cases, people who have lost everything were unable to get insurance against flood damage.

Bedwas RFC said there has been tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage to their property but because they are on a floodplain, they are not insured.

Communities have been coming together, volunteering their time to help those affected by the floods. Credit: ITV Cymru Wales

Numerous fundraisers have been launched to try and raise cash to support those affected. An online campaign started by Welsh actor Michael Sheen raised £30,000 in just over 24 hours.

The Manic Street Preachers have also donated £3,000 to help flood-hit communities.