The Queen has spoken of her gratitude to emergency workers who battled against floods in York.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott says in a letter to City of York Council that he has been asked by the Queen to pass on her admiration and gratitude

"The Queen has remarked especially on the ingenuity, stamina and good humour displayed by those engaged in emergency work, as well as by those personally affected by the floods."

Mr Prescott said he would like to add his own appreciation, and that of the Government, for the hard work and dedication shown by those engaged in flood defence and emergency response work.

"I would like to commend the hard work and commitment of everyone whose actions helped to prevent or minimise flooding in areas that were under real threat."

Updated: 08:35 Tuesday, January 23, 2001