Practicalities were forgotten for a few days as we absorbed our new environment until, over a coffee in the village, I heard the mention of flooding and the realisation of the implications of living so close the river hit us.

Suddenly, our priority was to ensure our home was protected against natural disasters and we endeavoured to gain home insurance. That is where the nightmare began.

Though the Association of British Insurers (ABI) have assured property owners in flood areas with existing insurance cover that their insurer is likely to continue providing cover, what is failing to happen is that those moving into flood-affected areas are either being refused insurance altogether or are being charged an inordinate amount in excesses.

Three solid weeks were spent trying to obtain house insurance. We conversed with neighbours and discovered our situation was not unique. By the fourth week, after being informed we were living in the highest risk flood zone, we began to fear the worst. Our property was uninsurable. We were devastated.

We shared our major concerns with anyone who would listen.

Word of mouth is a very strong tool and following a chance meeting about flood barriers with Dave Fletcher of James Burrell Builders Merchants, out of the blue we received an email from an insurance broker, Neil Cook, head of specialist risks with Equity and General Insurance Services. I read with disbelief and a huge sense of relief, 'Dear Dawn, I was asked by UK Flood Barriers to help you get cover. Kindly call me.'

Within days, not only were we given a very reasonable quote with full flood cover at the sight of a letter confirming flood defences in place on our property, but the policy being offered to us had a minimal excess on flood claims. Alleluia! Peace of mind is priceless! Mr Cook came though for us.

Now, where were we? Relaxing and enjoying our tranquil new home, which is just how it should be!
Mrs D Ashby
Rothbury