Sales of flood-protection products have soared at B&Q, and staff at its store in Reading - one of the areas severely hit by flooding - were yesterday filling and handing out free sandbags to anyone who needed them.
The branch, which is in Reading Gate Retail Park, succumbed to rising water itself at the weekend and had to close. But the outlet has now reopened and distributed 1,500 sandbags to beleaguered local residents.

A B&Q spokesperson said: "We want to spread the word in the local area so that as many people as possible can be helped."

As the Met Office continues to issue flood warnings, and with the severe weather that has battered Britain showing no signs of abating, the retailer has pledged to help households nationwide do what they can do to protect their homes. It says it is taking action to ensure that residents in vulnerable areas have access to the information and supplies they need to try to keep their homes safe.

B&Q has seen sales of home protection products rise weekly by over 300% since November, and it is trying to ensure that key lines are re-stocked as the storms continue to rage across Britain.

Amongst them are Hydro self-inflating sacks, which create effective barriers to mitigate the threat of flood water. Within minutes each sack can absorb up to 20 litres of water, which will not be released even when punctured.

If the worst happens, the Hozelock flood pump can help control damage to the home, emptying water from flooded rooms, cellars and ponds.

B&Q has also issued a list of top weather protection tips for householders whose homes are at risk.

Graham Holmes, buyer of extreme weather and external construction at B&Q said: "As well as serious damage to homes, extreme weather conditions can cause unexpected costs and hassle, not to mention worry.

"Whether it's advice on what they need to keep water out or how best to use flood defence products, B&Q is here to help people be as best prepared as they can for the floods that are hitting the country."