AS chairman of North Yorkshire County Council I have been extremely impressed by the admirable response of so many of our staff at the time of this week' flooding disaster.

I am sure very careful advanced planning and the prompt reaction of so many on the day, and since, has been greatly appreciated by residents and visitors to the county alike.

I commend, thank and praise most highly all those who have taken part and include in this the other public services involved, who have played their part equally magnificently.

For many the recovery period will be difficult and in some cases may be prolonged.

But I know we shall all do our best to ensure the ongoing problems are kept to a minimum.

Michael Heseltine,

Chairman of North Yorkshire County Council,

Northallerton.

Updated: 09:39 Thursday, June 23, 2005