HOMES across west and north Wiltshire are at significant risk of flooding over the next 12 months, according to new flood maps released by the Environment Agency.

The maps, published this month, shows areas which could be hit by overflowing rivers and streams, putting 2.2 million properties at risk nationwide 400,000 more than was previously thought.

The map means that for the first time homeowners and businesses can check online to see how safe their property is.

Parts of Bradford on Avon and Chippenham, which have both suffered badly from floods in the past, are considered to be at 'significant' risk of flooding defined as having a one-in-75 risk of flooding each year.

Sue Macklin, of Sutton Benger, is one resident whose house would be under water in a case of extreme flooding.

She said: "I'm very concerned about it. When I contacted the Environment Agency they told me they wouldn't buy a house within half a mile of a river. Yet even now there is talk of building more houses on the flood plain in the village."

The maps take into account how close a property is to a river and any protection given by flood defences.

Sir John Harman, chairman of the Environment Agency, said: "We want to provide as much information as possible as soon as it is available to help people understand if they are at risk and what to do to prepare for flooding.

"Flooding is a natural phenomenon that will become more frequent as climate change leads to more extreme weather conditions."

The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has also issued warnings that global warming could increase the flooding risk unless more action is taken to save energy at home.

Jo Badham, the trust's energy projects manager, said: "The situation will only get worse unless we all take action and work together to save energy."

The map can be viewed online at www.environment-agency.gov.uk where there is also advice about what flood risks can mean for home insurance.