Cowboy builders are plaguing flood-hit Uckfield.

Council officials say they have fielded a long line of inquiries from contractors from as far away as Scotland offering cut-price services.

Wealden Council environment manager Christine Wheatley is co-ordinating efforts to help the scores of traders hit by the town's worst floods for decades.

Millions of pounds of damage was caused to shops, offices and factories when the River Uck burst it banks. Only a small number of businesses have since reopened.

Local firms will be brought in to carry out work despite other contractors trying to cash in on Uckfield's misfortune.

Mrs Wheatley said: "Unfortunately we've had the cowboys on the phone already but we're not giving them any consideration.

"People are still coming to terms with what has happened here and we are keen to help them in any way we can. That includes protecting them against cowboys."

The town council has also set up a campaign to raise funds for victims.

Anyone able to donate to the appeal should send a cheque made payable to the Uckfield Flood Appeal to Uckfield Town Council, Civic Centre, Bell Farm Lane, Uckfield, TN22 1AE.