Bewdley riverside residents under siege from renewed flooding have had their spirits buoyed by hopes of rates relief.

But Wyre Forest District Council, currently seeking national guidelines on rates concessions, came under fire this week for lack of sympathy and delaying a decision on the issue.

Flood victims believe they could be entitled to full relief from rates for up to 12 months as householders and for three months for business owners.

Concessions have already been offered to victims in other flood areas such as Shrewsbury and Upton-on Severn.

Wyre Forest MP David Lock warned the council this week it was in danger of losing the goodwill it has earned for the work it has done to help residents because of its failure to reach agreement on financial relief.

Mr Lock attacked the council for an "over-legalistic and petty approach" to rate relief claiming he was told it might only be available if all belongings are removed from the flooded property.

"It is ridiculous to suggest that someone who has had their house flooded cannot leave behind damaged clothes and belongings for insurers to inspect.

"The council gained fantastic goodwill because of its hard work supplying sandbags and other help. I don't think the council officers realise how much damage they are doing by this inflexible approach."

Residents' impatience worsened on news Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council has widely circulated leaflets advertising rate relief.

Bewdley Residents' Flood Committee member Rob Young said he had asked the council five weeks ago for information. "They should publicly announce what is available like they have in Shrewsbury," he said.

Chairman Peter Barnett said: "I cannot understand why there should be such a contrast between the sympathetic approach in Shrewsbury and the approach in Wyre Forest."

A council spokesman confirmed only that the council is seeking advice on national policy.