The Environment Agency proposed dredging last year, but it was ruled out by the Government since it didn't offer "value for money". This was the correct decision. If you had a million pounds to spend on flood defence, why spend it protecting a couple of hundred rural properties when you could protect thousands in a town?

Politicians know very little about the complex matter of flood defence, but are quick to jump in and grandstand. As one EA staff member stated, Pickles would be more use as a sandbag!