The Environment Agency (EA) is due to begin work this week to repair a flood defence along a river in Suffolk.

The defence along the River Deben reduces the risk of flooding to 416 homes and businesses in Woodbridge.

The first stage of work will involve the EA replacing the existing defence wall from Tide Mill Way to the railway station.

The steel defences from the station to Deben Rowing Club will be reinforced with concrete and steel sheet piling.

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The first work phase is expected to take three months to complete, with the existing standard of flood protection maintained throughout the works.

Graham Verrir, Environment Agency flood risk manager, said: "Whilst the existing defences suffered some damage in the 2013 tidal surge, they did successfully reduce the risk of flooding to people and properties in Woodbridge.

"However, we need to be confident that any further flood events can be withstood for many years to come which is why this work is so important."

Diversions will be in place whilst the work is carried out.

(LM)