FLOOD defenses are being prepared around Cumbria as the risk of flooding looms over the county.

South Lakeland District Council are preparing stocks of sandbags at various locations across the district for members of the public to collect for their homes.

The Council remind residents that this is only a precautionary measure.

A depot can be found at Canal Head, Kendal, open between 8am and 4pm today, and between 9am and 12am tomorrow.

Other locations include a depot at North Lonsdale Road in Ulverston and at Ecclerigg and the car park on Broad Street near Windermere, by the Royalty Cinema in Bowness, and at the Low Fold and Rothay Holme car parks in Ambleside.

Further information can be found on the SLDC website.