LONDONERS are being invited to see the Thames Barrier in action and to get some tips on preparing for flooding.

Environment Agency staff will host the event at the iconic defence barrier from 9am to 3pm on Thursday (March 10).

There will also be a chance to see the barrier undergo a routine monthly test closure, which will take place between 9.30am and noon.

The event is being held as part of Exercise Watermark, a national emergency exercise which will test the country’s response to surface water, reservoir, river and coastal flooding.

The barrier is the key asset in a system of flood defences protecting more than 352,101 households, 1.25 million people, 98 railway stations, 400 schools and 16 hospitals in London.

People will be able to find out more about their own flood risk, steps they can take to prepare and how the Environment Agency and other partners manage the risk of flooding.

There will be opportunities to see a sandbag wall being built and other flood defences being put up.

Andy Batchelor, an area flood risk manager at the Environment Agency, said: “One in six properties in England and Wales is at risk of flooding.

“It is vital we are all prepared for flooding so to find out if you are at risk, and sign up for our free Floodline Warnings Direct service, call Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit environment-agency.gov.uk/floodsoutheast”

He added: “This community event is a great opportunity for people to come along to the Thames Barrier, not only to find out more about how the structure works and see it operate, but also to pick up some important advice about how best to prepare for flooding.”

Environment Agency staff will also be available with display materials and to answer questions in the Thames Barrier Information and Learning Centre from 10am to 4pm between Friday (March 11) and Sunday (March 13).