HUMPS and new drains are urgently required on the road by the bridge at Boscastle if further surface flooding is to be avoided, according to North Cornwall's MP, Dan Rogerson.

The local Liberal Democrat MP met with traders and residents recently along with representatives of the Environment Agency and Forrabury and Minster Parish Council to listen to their concerns.

The county council now plans to bring forward measures that will divert water off the hill and into the river, and Mr Rogerson is calling on the authority to do 'everything possible' to ensure that the drains at the top of the hill are maintained. He will ensure that both Environment Agency and the parish council are kept informed of progress.

Commenting after his meeting, Mr Rogerson said: "It's imperative that the County Highways Department gets this right. After the catastrophic flooding in 2004, £800,000 was spent on flood defences to stop the river bursting its banks. And in all, around £11m has been spent in the ­village.

"Leaving the surface drainage in disrepair risks sinking the ship for a ha'peth of tar. Villagers already know all too well the devastating effect that flooding can have on their lives and their livelihoods, and I will do everything I can to ensure they are ­protected."