Flood volunteers praised for defending villages during storms

EMERGENCY volunteers have been praised for their work during storms  ‘Ciara’  and ‘Dennis’ protecting  the villages of Shaw and Whitley from flooding.

Thanks to the efforts of volunteers from the Shaw & Whitley Community Emergency Group, there were no reports of internal flooding in any properties in the Shaw and Whitley area over the two weekends when storms battered the UK – a stark comparison to the 23 properties  that were flooded in  2014.

There has also been acknowledgement for the work carried out by Wiltshire Council last year to install flood prevention pipes in the Whitley area, which Melksham Without Parish Council has credited as making a ‘real difference’.

Whitley residents, Maureen and Richard Hibbott said, “A huge thank you to everyone for their wonderful service to the community over the past weekend.  It was truly magnificent in its response times, communication and coordination of manpower with crisis management in overcoming the battle with flood conditions in our two villages.  

“The parish council and emergency group really saved the day and I think you all are worth your weight in gold.  Please convey our sincere thanks to all those who joined in the weekend’s flood crisis; I am sure they are too numerous to mention but I am equally sure they helped save many properties in grave danger, especially on Sunday (16th February).

“I am happy to report that all resilience measures put in by those of us who flooded in 2012 and 2015, and those who have worked doggedly in the intervening years from Wiltshire Council to the emergency group and CAWS, should be congratulated for helping to safeguard the properties along West Hill Lane.  I have not heard any reports of flooding around here over the weekend.”

Wiltshire councillor for the Melksham Without North ward, Phil Alford said, “Storm Dennis brought a month of rain in two days but despite the deluge what has been really incredible is just how outstanding the Shaw & Whitley Community Emergency Group were over the weekend. The efficiency with which they responded to the flooding was remarkable. Between them, Melksham Without Parish Council and Wiltshire Council, the response was text book. The pipes and drainage put in on First Lane moved the water quickly, sandbags were deployed and the accumulated water dissipated in a few hours. 

“Of course there is still work to do, as a council we now need to work on having the culverts and drains improved at Corsham Road, around Shaw junction and along George Ward Gardens to make sure the water is taken away to the Avon quicker, but this is a shining example of what can be done when we pull together. 

“Finally, absolute credit must go to the planning and determined efforts of the Whitley flooding team, their skill and hard work won the day and shows what a brilliant team can do.”

From the Shaw & Whitley Community Emergency Group, Jonathan Rumens  told Melksham News, “With the recent storms, the Shaw & Whitley Community Emergency Group have been busy. This group formed after the damaging floods of 2014, and is well equipped to deal with emergency situations.

“On Sunday (16th February) during Storm Dennis, the group was monitoring the rising level of the Southbrook.  The team mobilised at midday; we were concerned about water flooding over the road by Shaw School.  A number of volunteers turned out, and flood warning signs and sandbags were deployed.

“In particular, there was a serious risk that Shaw School hall would flood, and a nearby residential property.  The prompt actions of the volunteers prevented any damage.

“Compared with five years ago, this community is well placed to respond to challenges like this, and a debt of gratitude is due to the volunteers.  And also to Melksham Without Parish Council, and Wiltshire Council, who give excellent support.”