UP to 40 roads across North Yorkshire are still closed with highway bosses calling on people not to move vital road blocks and pumping equipment as they battle to beat the floods.

With more rain expected North Yorkshire highways expect to have to carry on pumping operations for several weeks because of the sheer scale of the problems caused by Storm Christoph.

Malton and Norton is particularly badly affected with several houses flooded and the main route through the town closed. There's also been concern about bridge blockages; at Yafforth, near Northallerton, several tree trunks had to be removed.

Officers said highway teams worked round the clock after four inches of rain fell across the county, coming on top of days of snow and rapidly plummeting temperatures leaving widespread ice.

One of the main priorities was to keep roads open for essential journeys, particularly for Covid-19 testing and vaccination centres.

Councillor Don Mackenzie, the county counci's lead member for access said: "A multi-agency pumping operation to protect homes and businesses is expected to continue for several weeks to manage this issue."

After reports that closure signs and water pumps have been moved CCTV organisers in Malton and Norton say anyone tampering with vital equipment will be reported to the police.

Councillor Martin Dales, Chairman of Ryedale Cameras in Action, said:"Regrettably it is true that there has been interference with equipment needed to deal with the current flooding What those who are doing these anti-social things are trying to achieve is beyond me and I would like to remind people that CCTV footage can be monitored live with a direct radio link to North Yorkshire Police."

Cllr Mackenzie added: "The situation is gradually improving, but ground water remains high and the pumping operation will continue as long as necessary. However, the number of pumps is likely to be scaled back and roads will reopen as soon as they safely can.

"We appreciate all those drivers and pedestrians who sensibly heed road closure signs. However, some have ignored signs or moved barriers. Do not enter flood water. Do not put yourself and others at risk by ignoring closures."