Bogus traders have already been found operating in flood-affected areas. The fraudsters have offered a range of services including tree chopping, garden clearance, guttering, tarmacing and roof cleaning.

As a result council leaders have urged people to be vigilant and follow  these five steps:
*Ask for identification - genuine traders will carry ID
*Always make sure you get a written quote for any work to be carried out
*Only pay after the work has been completed
*Check your chosen trader is approved by your insurance company
*Contact your local trading standards office for guidance