Work to try to reduce flood risk by removing gravel from the River Derwent began this week.

Workington Flood Action Group was the first in the county to be granted a permit by the Environment Agency to remove gravel from a river after it was told work in its area would not be carried out this year.

Ashcroft Plant started work this week on a stretch of the Derwent at the far end of Millfield, by the Yearl Weir on the Workington side.

Once removed, the firm will clean the gravel and reuse it.

It comes as the Environment Agency has warned that landowners' attempts to complete certain work could lead to prosecutions if they do not have the correct permits.

An environmental permit for flood risk activities is needed for work including removing stones.

Cath Evans, senior officer for flood and coastal risk management national services with the agency, said the regulations are vital to ensure such activities will not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

“Increasing the height of a wall to protect property can, in some cases, increase the risk of flooding to properties on the opposite side of the river or downstream,” she said.

The agency is keen to work with people to ensure their efforts don’t increase the risk of flooding to themselves or others and said environmental permits are free for flood damage repair.