COUNCILS in York and North and East Yorkshire are being given hundreds of thousands of pounds to help them identify and manage flood risks.

The Government is handing City of York Council £120,000 next year, and £155,000 per annum in subsequent years.

North Yorkshire County Council is to receive £168,000 in 2011/12 and £371,000 in following years, while East Riding of Yorkshire will get £162,000 next year and £346,000 in subsequent years.

Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman said the funds would fully cover the costs of putting into place and carrying out new responsibilities under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, such as flood mapping.