People whose homes are at risk of flooding should be encouraged by the government to build their own defences, according to Worcestershire MP Sir Michael Spicer.

Sir Michael said small grants should be made to individuals who want to protect their property.

The Conservative member for Worcestershire West said the approach would be a better use of taxpayers' money and could provide help where it is most needed.

He cast doubt on the effectiveness of big flood defence schemes, such as the recently installed flood barrier at Bewdley, Worcestershire.

Self-help schemes

"The government has set aside quite large sums of money for flood defences and prevention and is engaged in a number of very big schemes," Sir Michael said.

"The question is whether these are totally cost effective, or the most cost effective way of spending public money.

"I'm quite interested in, in fact I'm convinced that some of these self-help schemes can be very effective, can be relatively cheap."

Sir Michael outlined his plans at a public meeting in his constituency on Wednesday.

Worcestershire was one of the hardest-hit counties during the floods of November 2000.