BUSINESS and home owners whose property was damaged or flooded in last year’s storms are being urged to apply for up to £5,000 in grants to try and ensure it does not happen again.

The scheme was set up through North Yorkshire County council - and invoices for work must be submitted by February 5.

The Government put up funding so the district and county councils could give grants to invest in making properties more resistant and resilient to flooding.

The ultimate aim is to better prepare homes and businesses for future floods and to prevent water entering properties and speed the recovery if it does.

County council leader Carl Les said: “Anyone who thinks they are eligible to apply, I would urge them to get in touch as soon as possible to find out.

“We know that recovering from these events is a very difficult process - and therefore we want to encourage as many people as possible to get the support they need.”

Anyone who thinks they may be eligible visit the county council website at www.northyorks.gov.uk/article/31707/Flood-recovery-grants---residential and complete the grant application form online.

Alternatively, hard copies and assistance with applications, can be requested - contact the authority on 01609 780780.