Banging the drum about flood prevention at Haydon Bridge school

Representatives the agency's field team were at Shaftoe Trust Primary in July, where they spoke to pupils about work carried out in the village since Storm Desmond devastated properties in December 2015.

They also unveiled new play equipment donated to the school by the EA as part of the scheme.

The outdoor equipment included a drum kit, a 'story circle' seating area, and a mud kitchen; all made out of reclaimed timber from another EA project in Morpeth.

The EA's field team members Brian Hetherington, Chris Mole, James Storey and Michael Lloyd, spent time with pupils at the school.

Field operations team leader Ian Doughty said: "We're always keen to work together with schools to educate youngsters about understanding flood risk and the work we do with communities to reduce the risk of flooding."

Shaftoe Trust primary teacher Susan Flynn said: "The project created great excitement within the school and will bring pleasure to the children for many years to come."

"The mud kitchen, drum kit and story circle will provide many opportunities for collaborative play and learning."

Last year the EA carried out erosion repairs on the north and south banks of the River South Tyne at Haydon Bridge.

Essential work was carried out to the bank at Martins Close and Rocksprings Crescent, while improvements were made to flood walls at Brigwood and Temple Houses.