POLICE have praised the efforts of members of the public and emergency services for their swift actions during recent flash floods in North Yorkshire.

Homes were flooded and roads submerged in Northallerton and Osmotherley following torrential rain on Tuesday night.

Police said the quick supply of sandbags by local authorities saved homes from further damage, while firefighters prevented the waters from building up by removing branches and debris which had blocked a footbridge.

Chief Supt Ali Higgins, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “I am grateful for the rapid response and support given by colleagues from the other emergency services and councils. Working together meant we were able to minimise the amount of damage and disruption caused to the local community.”