A number of cities across the European Union have joined regional efforts to take action to adapt to climate change.

By joining the Mayors Adapt initiative, participating local authorities will benefit from support for local activities, platform for greater engagement and networking by cities and more public awareness to tackle climate change.

A total of 100 EU cities have committed to take action and more are queuing up to join, the European Commission said.

UK cities that have joined the initiative are Greater Manchester, Leicester and Newcastle upon Tyne and those that have shown interest are Glasgow, Hastings Borough and Stirling.

EU Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard said: “Our cities are building up their resilience against climate change. That is great news for citizens and businesses. Good preparation will be much cheaper than cleaning up afterwards – and it can save lives.”

A report published earlier this year warned Europe risks facing a €190 billion (£151.9m) bill as a result of climate damages from global warming.