WHEN this newspaper launched its campaign to save Ryedale from flooding, little could we have guessed at our sense of timing.

For shortly after we began canvassing support for improved flood defences to protect Norton, Malton and Old Malton from the River Derwent, Ryedale was hit by the worst floods in living memory.

Our campaign was brought to life following the floods of March 1999. Little more than 18 months later, the Derwent rose again, this time to even more devastating effect.

As we report today, flood defence schemes in Ryedale could be brought forward by a year in the wake of the recent inundation.

The Environment Agency hopes to speed up a £4 million project for the Derwent.

Ryedale MP John Greenway hopes this work might now start next year or in 2002.

While arguments still persist about exactly what needs to be done to prevent future flooding, there is no doubt that many people in Ryedale are desperately seeking reassurance that their homes will be protected.

Many devastated householders are now trying to sort out homes that are at best damp and at worst in need of serious building work.

Some people have been flooded twice in as many years and will be haunted by fears that next year, their homes might again be invaded by water.

The timing of the recent floods only reinforces our campaign. John Greenway is right to stress that it is now even more important for people to sign the Evening Press petition to Save Ryedale From Flooding.

The Environment Agency has already been made fully aware of support for flood defences in Ryedale, thanks to the campaign.

So anyone who is concerned about flooding in Ryedale should sign up now and pledge their support for action.