The fearsome floods at Uckfied and Lewes last year caused immense distress to residents and businesses, costing them millions of pounds.

They also hit the fire brigade badly. Valuable equipment was lost and the fire stations in both towns were extensively damaged.

Even though the brigade is to receive £2.5 million in flood insurance, this will in no way cover all the losses.

These floods were the worst for at least a century and it could be another 100 years before anything like it happens again.

But we cannot be sure about that and changing weather patterns indicate heavier autumn and winter rainfalls.

The brigade's losses are yet another indication that serious investment is needed in flood prevention measures on the River Ouse to prevent repetition of misery and damage.