David Ruffley has stepped in to support the campaign by Mid Suffolk District Councillors, Rod Scott and Derrick Haley, to find a solution to the flooding of Thurston Road, Beyton where it passes under the A14.

Flooding has been occurring after heavy rainfall at this site in Beyton since the early seventies. At times the water is two foot deep which means that the road is impassable even for many 4x4 vehicles.

Councillors Scott and Haley have raised this flooding issue on many occasions with Suffolk County Council and the Highways Agency on behalf of residents of Beyton and the surrounding villages. Beyton Parish Council also took up the issue with the County Council as far back as 2002.

Following a site meeting on Friday 20 March attended by representatives of Suffolk County Council Highways Department, Mid Suffolk District Council and Beyton Parish Council, there is hope that a solution may now be in sight.

David said: 'I have pledged my full support to local Councillors, Rod Scott and Derrick Haley, who have been working hard to get this flooding problem sorted for a long time. They contacted me because they were concerned that no progress was being made in this long running saga which is affecting a large number of our mutual constituents.

'We need to keep up the momentum to get this matter resolved. This flooding has been going on for decades; it is time to put an end to all the inconvenience suffered by local residents who use this road.

'I have written to Mike Manning, Assistant Director of Environment and Transport at the County Council, asking for his assurance that finding a solution to the flooding in Thurston Road, Beyton will now be given high priority.

'I have also asked him for a timescale for this project. I will be keeping a close eye on progress and will intervene if there is any slippage.'