Borders MP Michael Moore has been keeping in contact with local officials over the past 24 hours as they deal with the effects of widespread flooding across the region.

Mr Moore was in Hawick yesterday evening and saw the flooding along Mansfield Road and other parts of the town for himself and was briefed on the work of the volunteer flood group. He will be back in the town later in the day and will re-visit the affected areas. He will also be meeting with constituents in other affected areas such as Coldstream on Saturday morning where he will be holding an advice surgery in the town.

Mr Moore commented:

"The council, their partners in the emergency services and countless local volunteers have been working tirelessly through the night and deserve everyone's praise and gratitude. The speed and strength of the water is quite terrifying to witness and many have spent an extremely anxious night hoping for the floods to subside. The latest weather reports and briefings suggest that things may now have peaked, but everyone will remain on their guard.

"Right now the priority is to help those in need and to assess the effects of the flooding. The local emergency response teams based at Newtown St Boswells will continue to lead on these efforts, supported by me and others. Any constituent who wishes to raise issues with me about the events of the past 24 hours can call me on 01896 663650 or email michaelmooremp@parliament.uk"