Local Priest-in-Charge the Revd Anna Burr and Bishop of Selby Dr John Thomson visited some of the worst effects of the flooding and its filthy aftermath on the Aire Washlands around West Bank and Hirst Courtney on Thursday afternoon with District Councillor Mike Jordan.
Flood water has affected several properties along Hirst Road, and in the village of Hirst Courtney several families have been forced to leave their homes.
Anna (4th photo from left, with Cllr Jordan) said, “We were left with a huge sense of admiration for the way the community has pulled together to prevent even worse flooding.
“This often at landowners’ own expense, and, with enormous commitment and effort, some properties have been saved from disaster that would otherwise have been inundated.
“Many people said how grateful they are to those who have worked around the clock to keep them safe. There was a real sense of relief and thankfulness that no lives have been lost.”
Anna and Bishop John asked what, if anything, is needed in the immediate aftermath of the floods?
At the moment no one seems to be in immediate need of emergency aid, they were told, but the community will need a number of skips to take ruined carpets, furniture and the many tons of stubble and other detritus that is accumulating in gardens and on the road, and Councillor Jordan said he would contact Selby District Council to organise these.