FLOOD victims in Ryedale are still waiting anxiously to hear when their homes will finally be protected.
The Environment Agency announced last month that work on a flood defence project was being delayed because costs had risen by more than a million pounds.
The Yorkshire Regional Flood Defence Committee is set to meet in January to decide whether to release the extra cash.
Homeowners in Malton and Norton who were hit by the floods have vowed to step up their campaign if the extra funding is not approved.
They have spoken of their fears that they could be left unprotected for another winter flooding season if there are any further delays on the start of the scheme.
Norton resident Di Keal, who sits on a residents' committee, said: "It looks like the work is not going to start until January now.
"We are upset about that but what concerns us now is whether they will have it completed in time for next winter".
Updated: 11:52 Saturday, December 08, 2001
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