Maria Eagle MP, Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary, commenting on flooding in coastal areas of the country, said:

“This is an unimaginably stressful and distressing time for those who have seen their home or small business wrecked by flood water.

"Our thoughts are with them this weekend as they begin the task of cleaning up with less than three weeks before Christmas.

"The Emergency Services and Environment Agency staff did an excellent job in difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions and deserve our respect and thanks for keeping people safe.”