Old Malton is to lose its experimental flood barrier, the Environment Agency has announced.

The Swedish-designed barrier - made from pallets and clay - was put in place early last month so the agency could see how easily it could be set up.

It took just over a day.

But despite very heavy rain in the week after the system was put in place, it has yet to be properly tested.

"For us to try out the barrier properly it is essential that it is tested in different places and that different officers are trained to put it up," said Environment Agency works manager Mike Davies

"And, of course, it is vital we test it in flood conditions."

Old Malton resident Simon Robertson, who was commended by Prime Minister Tony Blair for the work he and two friends did for their community during the flooding, welcomed the tests.

"Some residents feel that in the time the workers were there they could have built some permanent defences.

"They didn't though and so at least they built an alternative.

"If it has not been tested then I agree that is necessary - there is no point them sitting there all summer only to fail if they have to cope with a flood.

"We would like assurances they will be available again - it would be very cruel on the people of Old Malton if they were taken away permanently."

The former Mayor of Malton, Martin Dales, agreed it would be best if the system was tested properly.

"We are not too worried provided they return or they are made available to return, and it is vital that we see how they operate under flood conditions.

"The key thing is getting the permanent defences that people across Ryedale have been fighting for for so long."

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, April 24, 2001