The vehicle, named Truxor, is designed to work both on the channel bed or whilst afloat. It has recently been trialled at river sections in Kelvedon and Heybridge in Essex having previously been used in Norfolk.

By cutting the vegetation in water channels before the winter, any flood water is able to get away from settlements quicker. Decisions on where to cut are prioritised based on flood risk in a particular area.

The Environment Agency works all year round to help minimise flood risk. We routinely inspect defences and carry out repairs and maintenance. This includes channel maintenance and involves a range of activities to maintain conveyance such as weed cutting, removing blockages and where appropriate dredging.

David Simpson, flood-risk supervisor in the Chelmer and the Blackwater rivers, said:

Truxor has proved to be a very beneficial piece of equipment.

It is making a real difference in helping to reduce the flood risk to communities across the area.

Climate change is happening now. We’re seeing more extreme weather, with an increase in flooding, coastal erosion and landslips.

That’s why we advise people should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings at https://www.gov.uk/check-flood-risk

You can also call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or follow @EnvAgency on Twitter for the latest flood updates.