Imagine knowing that the heavy rains we have been deluged with will, in all probability, flood your house and/or town. Then think about this – a collection of you, townspeople, gather to decide that by erecting makeshift flood defenses, you can save your town and/or property. This is an elevated bank, protecting many houses.

Then there is the real kicker to the story – the Environment Agency then tells you and your fellow survivors that your newly-built flood defences are illegal. Why? Because they are potentially causing more problems elsewhere for other people.

So, what is the point of government again?