THE LEADER of the Welsh Liberal Democrats has expressed her concerns over the apparent misuse of flood defence equipment in Wrexham last week.

Properties in Trevalyn, near Rossett, were filling with water on Sunday morning (October 22) after the nearby River Alyn burst its banks during Storm Babet two days earlier.

Among those affected was 82-year-old Harry Smith who had to be rescued from his flooded home by his family members. 

Concerns were raised over flood defence equipment having not being used properly to ease the effects of the storm.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) told the Leader at the time that their staff were 'working extended shifts to minimise the effects of the storm where possible'.

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However, the spokesperson added that, as more rain fell more quickly in parts of Wales than the forecast had suggested, it didn't give them sufficient time to 'install temporary flood defences'.

Jane Dodds MS said: "I would like to express my thoughts and well-wishes to those affected by the flooding brought about by Storm Babet, particularly the residents of Trevalyn.

"The fact that nearby flooding equipment wasn't properly utilised is extremely concerning and I urge Natural Resources Wales to take urgent action.

"Extreme weather conditions are becoming increasingly more frequent due to climate change, which not only threatens us here in Wales but also the international community as a whole. 

"We must make sure that areas most at risk of flooding are properly protected, and that something like this doesn't happen again."