AN insurance provider has offered a lifeline to elderly flood victims.

Age Concern Insurance Services is asking policyholders who have suffered flood damage to get in touch immediately so it can help to secure homes, carry out repairs and cleaning or help to meet people's immediate needs.

The company is trying to contact people who are staying with relatives or in temporary accommodation.

In South Church and West Auckland, many people's homes are still uninhabitable after being hit by floods earlier this year and a significant number of people are living in caravans.

Insurance manager David Hoyle said: "We fully appreciate that special consideration needs to be given to ensure older people are provided with all possible help when damage caused by floods occurs.

"As damaged properties are identified, we are using our own network of accredited builders and contractors to ensure houses are rapidly restored to liveable conditions."

Customers should call the 24-hour helpline set up for flood victims on (0870) 2430491.