FLOOD alleviation work to waterways in the Horncastle area will give better protection to 21 homes.

The Environment Agency is carrying out the work on the banks of the River Bain and Horncastle Canal, upstream and downstream of Horncastle.

Work includes repairing settlement and ruts along the top of the banks and making good damage caused by burrowing animals on the right bank of the Horncastle Canal.

This will be carried out upstream of Martin Lock, as well as on both banks of the River Bain, upstream of Shearmans Wath bridge.

The need for the work, which is costing £100,000, was identified after Environment Agency staff inspected the banks and local residents had also voiced their concerns.

Alison Coulling, Environment Agency project manager, said: "The work will restore the condition of the banks before they deteriorate further and help to ensure their long-term integrity. Reinstating the crest of the banks will also provide consistent, safe access for maintenance to reduce the risk of a breach during flood conditions."

The work, which is expected to take seven weeks to complete, is being carried out by Environment Agency contractor BAM Nuttall.

It is part of the Environment Agency's ongoing programme of works to refurbish defences and structures throughout the Bain Valley.

The agency says the bank restoration work will reduce the risk of flooding but cannot completely remove it.

Therefore, it is vital people in the area are prepared and know what action they can take.

Anyone wanting to find out more should contact the Environment Agency's Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit the website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/ floodanglian

The website allows people to check whether their home or business is at risk of flooding and to sign up for the free Floodline Warnings Direct service.

Anyone who spots something which they believe is causing a flood risk, such as fallen trees or debris, should call the Environment Agency's 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 807060.