John Thomson, founder and chairman of Freuchie Flood Action Group, travelled to Broxburn in West Lothian on Monday along with group member Neil Duff to hear Scotland's environment minister Mike Russell pledge £180,000 of government money to help set up the new body.

The Scottish Flood Forum aims to raise awareness of flooding issues as well as provide an independent voice for victims.

Mr Thomson, whose home in Freuchie Mill was amongst the worst affected as a result of events on August 13, said it was 'heartening' that Mr Russell and other Scottish Government officials had shown considerable understanding about the effects that flooding can have on its victims, which went much further than the damage to property.

He said that before the official launch announcement he had spoken to the minister, who spent some time listening to the experiences of Freuchie residents and who promised to visit the village in the new year.

Broxburn was chosen for the launch event because, like Freuchie, it was badly hit by flash flooding following heavy rain this summer.

Mr Russell said: "The new Scottish Flood Forum aims to give people practical advice which we can all heed to protect ourselves against flooding, by raising awareness of flood warnings and self-help measures.

"It is increasingly important to raise awareness of flooding in this way, following one of the wettest summers on record, and the risk is only likely to increase with climate change in years to come.

"Flooding is highly distressing for its victims and the forum will also play an important role in providing an independent voice for those affected by flooding or at high risk from its devastating impact."