Malton and Norton residents could be in line for thousands of pounds worth of insurance payouts following the autumn floods - and the towns' traders are pleading with them to spend it all locally.

While many flood-hit businesses are now fully back in action, they are urging local people to invest their cash in the town to safeguard the future of shops and jobs.

Ian Beecham, acting chairman of Malton and Norton Chamber of Trade, said: "There has been a marvellous fighting spirit.

"Multiple chain stores would have probably just closed down, but our shops are traditional family businesses and everyone has been determined to pull through. What we now need is for the customers to support us."

Harold Darley, owner of the old- established Robson Motors, said: "Businesses have bounced back. There will be a lot of money coming into Malton and Norton through insurance pay-outs and we are urging everyone to spend it in the two towns. By supporting local businesses, the residents will benefit in the long run because it will ensure the survival of many businesses."

Tony Bulman, of petrol garage Tyke 2000, said: "The small businesses need support. There are already some empty shops and we are determined not to let them become ghost towns."

The premises and equipment of Barry Coning's diesel and auto services in Welham Road were extensively damaged by the floods, which reached depths of up to four feet.

"We have all been shocked and dismayed," he said.

"But the prospects are looking brighter. Customers have stuck by us and we are grateful."