People are being urged not to get caught out over Christmas by preparing sandbags in case of stormy weather.

Sidmouth Town Council, which provides sandbags to householders, is closed until Tuesday, January 3.

During this period, residents will be able to collect bags from East Devon District Council and Councillor Stuart Hughes.

Cllr Hughes, county council cabinet member for flood prevention, said: “We have experienced several storms recently and we have been advised that, due to global warming, they will become more frequent. As we have seen in recent years, these usually happen over Christmas and my advice is to be prepared.”

To request a sandbag, call Cllr Hughes on 07725708891.