FAMILIES in a North-East village devastated by flooding have been warned it could be weeks or months before their homes are habitable again.

Surveyors are expected to begin drawing up "delapidation" schedules - itemised accounts of what is needed to be done in 38 council houses - in flood-hit Skinningrove.

There were 101 homes affected by the flooding, including 61 owner-occupiers, who are also receiving council checks.

Joe Youmans, project coordinator for Redcar and Cleveland Council, said most residents were living in the upstairs of their homes - but the council was advising them that it would not be wise to stay.

"We are discussing every option with them - if they wish to move into bed and breakfast accommodation, another council house, move in with relatives, or to other private accommodation, and we are assessing their needs on a daily basis."

A fund of £100,000 has been set aside by the council to help villagers whose lives have been affected by the floods.

David Walsh, leader of Redcar and Cleveland Council, said the money would be used to help families in Skinningrove who have suffered varying degrees of damage to their homes.

The council is in the process of compiling an application for emergency relief from the Government.

An advice centre, with staff from all relevant council departments, as well as representatives from the Benefits Agency, welfare rights and gas, water and electricity representatives, has been set up in the old village school.

Towels, blankets and soap have been distributed to residents, along with an information sheet containing health advice