Community flood groups in Cumbria are being invited to join the largest debate on flood and coastal erosion in the UK.

The Environment Agency event is being held in response to some of the worst flooding the country has seen in recent years.

It will see 1,500 professionals and groups exchange information and thoughts on innovation and best practices for flood and coastal risk management.

Clare Dinnis, deputy director for flood and coastal risk management at the agency and chairman of the advisory committee, said: "Community flood groups and local authorities see the whole picture of what affects an area from planning policy through to emergency response and community support.

"They provide an important link with individuals and are often the first point of contact with those affected the most."

Grant Collier, spokesman for the event said: "This is one of the few opportunities for all those in the community that witness the devastating impact of flood and coastal erosion that wish to do something about it, to engage with the Environment Agency and hear what can be done."

There will be a series of seminars aimed at community flood groups, along with an exhibition, which are all free to attend.

There is also an in-depth technical conference running alongside the event.

The free seminars will include discussions on community flood planning, how people at risk can get involved and how flooding affects business and health.

The event will be held at Telford International Centre on March 28 to 30.

To register or find out more visit www.floodandcoast.com