Luzy Frazer, South East Cambridgeshire’s Conservative election hopeful, has warned against complacency over flooding despite the recent improvement in the weather.

January and February saw almost five inches of rain fall over Ely and the surrounding area – causing widespread disruption at both Sutton Gault and Welney and raising fears that some rivers may burst their banks.

But, so far, March has seen barely half-an-inch of rain and the rain-soaked ground has had almost a month to recover.

But, on a visit to the Ely Group of Internal Drainage Boards, Ms Frazer was told that more needs to be done to protect the area in the event of further prolonged periods of rain.

Andrew Newton, engineer for the Ely drainage boards, said: “In order to avert the disasters we have seen in previous years such as in 1947 and 1953 we need to take action now.

“As well as investing in capital assets it is vital that money is spent on ongoing maintenance. If we don’t maintain the embankments we are at risk of future flooding. The focus on urban areas to the detriment of rural areas must be addressed”.

Ms Frazer added: “Now that the weather has changed we must not forget the risk we face from flooding. It is important that the risks in this rural constituency are carefully considered and appropriate action taken”.