Tornado residents help shape city

The clean up operation is a major task

Victims of the freak tornado which struck eastern parts of Birmingham are giving their views on rebuilding the devastated areas.

Sparkbrook was one district which was badly damaged, when the tornado whipped through the city on 28 July, ripping off roofs and causing other damage.

Residents are meeting council officials to tell them how they think money for rebuilding should be spent.

The city council is putting in a bid for regeneration funding.

A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said not only did the council want to rebuild the damaged buildings, but to also make Sparkbrook a place where people wanted to live, raise families, run businesses and spend leisure time.

Councillor Ken Hardeman, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "It is vital local residents and businesses are involved in voicing their views about what they would like to see in the area in the future.

"We are particularly keen to involve young people as the future economy of the area will be very much dependant on them."