INSURANCE companies have assured residents near Selby that their problems getting flood insurance are over.

Homeowners in Barlby had problems finding insurance after the devastating floods which hit the area in November, 2000.

But the Association of British Insurers (ABI) said that new principles for flood insurance introduced on January 1 mean that residents in areas with flood defences will be able to get cover.

An association spokesman said that anyone who already had flood insurance cover or buys a house which is covered will be able to have it renewed. And anyone buying into an area with adequate flood defences or plans to improve existing flood defences will be insured.

He said: "In areas without defences, insurance companies will work with property owners to help them reduce the risk of flooding to enable them to get insurance in the future."

The news was welcomed by Selby MP John Grogan, who said that the struggle to get insurance had been very stressful for residents, who had already suffered during the 2000 floods.

Mr Grogan said he had met residents who were struggling to sell their homes in Barlby because potential buyers had been unable to secure flood insurance. This had also driven down the value of their homes.

He said: "People in Barlby should now have no problems getting insurance, but I would urge anyone who is still having difficulty to contact me as soon as possible."

Barlby councillor Brian Marshall said that he was relieved the problem had been resolved. He said: "One couple, who put their house on the market in November had a buyer drop out solely because they could not get flood insurance. Luckily they have now sold their house because their insurance company agreed to provide cover for the next owners."

The couple, of Woodlands Drive, Barlby, who asked not to be named, said they were happy the issue had been resolved and were looking forward to moving house.

Updated: 13:45 Saturday, January 11, 2003