A BOURNEMOUTH MP believes the town will be successful in accessing extra funds made available for flood-hit communities.

Tobias Ellwood was responding to an announcement yesterday by Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, that the government would provide an additional £130million for emergency repairs and maintenance over this year and the next.

He also announced plans to enhance the Bellwin scheme, which helps councils meet exceptional costs associated with protecting lives and properties.

Mr Ellwood told Mr Pickles: “Parts of my constituency (Iford Park) flooded twice over Christmas.

“Bournemouth council and local agencies met affected residents on Monday and the big question was how Bournemouth applied for part of the £130million emergency funding.

Mr Pickles replied: “I am looking at the schemes here and it appears that my hon Friend has been successful.”