Spending on flood defences set to rise to record levels

The government says it will spend more than £2.6bn, over the next two years, to protect more homes and businesses in England from flooding - £250m more than previously announced.

The money will be spent on projects ranging from tidal barriers and flood walls to nature-based solutions that slow water flow.

In its latest detailed assessment, the Environment Agency calculated 6.3 million homes across England were currently at risk from flooding from rivers, seas and surface water.

With climate change set to bring more intense storms and heavier rainfall, that could rise to eight million by 2050 - one out of every four properties.

"With this new funding, we will work closely with the government to deliver the vital projects that are needed across the country, ensuring our investment goes to those communities who need it the most," Alan Lovell, who chairs the Environment Agency, said.