Floodwater covered car parks in Corbridge

They will examine the flood defences on the River Gaunless in Bishop Auckland, and lessons learned from flooding in Hexham and Corbridge in January.

At that time, torrential rain raised water levels in the River South Tyne to a record level of 4.7m above normal, and caused extensive flooding.

Delegates will also look at improving communication between concerned groups.

Flood warning team leader Gerald Lee said: "The seminar is an opportunity for the different teams to look at the best ways of working together in an emergency.

"Flooding is likely to become more of a problem in the future due to climate change and it is essential that everyone is prepared.

"We take flooding extremely seriously but there is only so much protection that we can provide."

He said residents could help themselves by looking at the Environment Agency's website, and finding out if their home is at risk, and then plan accordingly.