Trees that hamper the flow of water along the Great Stour will be removed or pruned by the Environment Agency.

A survey has identified about 180 trees for removal or pruning between Sandwich and Fordwich, and the public are invited to find out more at the Grove Ferry Inn, between 2pm and 8pm tomorrow (Thursday).

The mayor of Sandwich, Cllr Paul Graeme, said: “I am pleased. Along with the ongoing flood defence works around Sandwich town, this should give our community far greater protection against flooding.”

The river between Fordwich and Sandwich experienced sustained high flows and flooding last winter.

Andrew Pearce, area manager for the Environment Agency, Kent and South London, said: “Until now, we have been unable to fund significant tree maintenance works over the last 10 years, only removing trees that present an immediate risk.

“Following the winter floods, the government made available extra funding to repair flood defences and carry out maintenance. We are taking this opportunity to remove and prune trees. We are really pleased we can now carry out these very important works. This will help reduce the flood risk in the area.”

Cllr Graeme added: “I would encourage anyone with concerns about flooding in the tidal Great Stour area to attend the Environment Agency’s drop-in session to find out more about their plans”.