Flood victims' fund tops £187,000

The flooding was the worst ever recorded in the town

A fund to aid victims of severe flooding in Northumberland six months ago has topped £187,000.

More than 1,000 properties in Morpeth were affected when the River Wansbeck broke its banks in September 2008.

Morpeth Lions Club launched an appeal to raise cash to help those who had lost possessions.

Club officials said £187,500 had so far been raised, with £63,500 already distributed to residents hoping to return to their homes.

Work to bolster flood defences in the town is ongoing with the Environment Agency repairing walls and culverts.

Since the floods, agency officers have also removed almost 100 tonnes of debris such as trees, garden benches, fencing and brash which caused obstructions at bridges throughout the town.

Drying out

Morpeth Flood Victims Appeal treasurer, Simon Pringle, said: "I am pleased to confirm that the total raised to date is £187,500 and that £63,500 has already been distributed.

"In addition, vouchers totalling £18,500 have been issued to householders returning to their homes or who have completed their house's drying out period.

"These vouchers will hopefully allow them to obtain items or services they see as a priority.

"As has been previously stated, we are ensuring there is sufficient in the appeal fund to cover the needs of those who are some months away from getting back into their homes."

The September floods were was the most severe ever recorded in the town, with more than two and a half times the average rainfall for a month falling on the town in under 48 hours.