RESIDENTS were informed how they could protect themselves from flooding.

Charlton locals were joined by Environment Agency flood specialists at the summer village fayre after the area was affected by 2007 floods from Merry Brook.

Charlton’s flood action group has been working with the Environment Agency and other partners to reduce the risk of flooding.

Since 2007 in Charlton, ten homes have installed property level protection including flood proof doors and boards on doorways or gates.

The community now also have access to a flood warning gauge which sends alerts to their phone to warn people the flooding is possible and to be prepared.

Martin Young from Environment Agency said: “It was great to be able to go along to the summer village fayre and talk to local people about how people can be prepared for flooding.

"It really is fantastic to see such community spirit, we really enjoyed our afternoon.”

Roger Davies, member of the local flood action group and parish councillor said: “Thank you to the two Environment Agency staff who came to our village fayre last Saturday.

"Their presence helped demonstrate that the EA are still very much involved in helping us here in Charlton and was an excellent way to remind people that we are still at risk of floods in the event of heavy rain.

“We’ve done a lot but still need to do more to minimise the risk of houses being flooded.

"We will continue to work closely with the Environment Agency, Worcestershire County Council, Wychavon District Council, the Parish Council, local landowners and farmers as we will be able to achieve more by working together.”

To check risks or to sign up for free flood warnings go to www.gov.uk/flood or 0345 988 1188.