A FREE flood warning scheme is set to be rolled out to people across Cheshire.

Residents on the O2 network who live in areas at high risk of flooding will receive an automated text message informing them that they have been signed up.

This will include a link to let them know what they should do if they receive a flood warning and the option to opt out.

Once registered, people will receive a message directly to their mobile if a flood warning is issued for their area.

Christian Wilcox, area flood and coastal risk manager at the Environment Agency, said: "Being registered for flood warnings can give people advance notice of flooding and some crucial time to prepare.

"If you get the text, it is because you live in an area at risk of flooding, so we would urge people to stay registered to the service."

The agency plans to add a customers on Vodafone and the Three network in due course.

Customers who are not on the O2 network can still receive free flood warnings by visiting floodsdestroy.campaign.gov.uk.