Learn from others how best to protect against flooding in the Calder Valley

Sixty flood wardens who volunteer to help protect people and their properties throughout the Calder Valley are being invited to an event to help them learn from each other.
Calderdale flood wardens from left, Alan Reardon, Karl Boggis, Tim Walton, Katie Kimber, Sarah-Jayne Robins and Paula MarshallCalderdale flood wardens from left, Alan Reardon, Karl Boggis, Tim Walton, Katie Kimber, Sarah-Jayne Robins and Paula Marshall
Calderdale flood wardens from left, Alan Reardon, Karl Boggis, Tim Walton, Katie Kimber, Sarah-Jayne Robins and Paula Marshall

The event is a chance for wardens or residents wishing to help play a part in flood management to learn different strategies.

Jonathan Follows, Calderdale flood resilience officer with the Environment Agency, said: “This is the second time we have had an event of this kind in Calderdale.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Our flood wardens are invaluable to us as our eyes and ears on the ground. This is a great opportunity for them to share best practice so they can support each other. They will have the chance to meet new people and learn more about the training opportunities and information that the Environment Agency can provide to help them in their role.”

A team from the Environment Agency will be signing people up for their free flood warning service, providing information about flood defence schemes in the area and discussing what is included in the Calderdale Flood Action Plan.

Representatives from the Council’s emergency planning, flood and housing teams will also be on hand to share information on Calderdale’s multiagency flood response protocol, flood risk management strategy and role in recovery following serious flooding.

Mark Thompson, director of Regeneration and Strategy at Calderdale Council, said: “We’re extremely grateful for the work our flood wardens do in helping to keep our communities as safe and informed as possible.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“If you or someone else you know has been affected by flooding, Calderdale’s flood groups are a valuable support network that can offer you help and information before, during and after a flood.

This is a great chance to meet wardens in your area, find out more about what they do and discover some of the many ways in which you can get involved should you wish to do so.”

The networking event, supported by the Environment Agency and Calderdale Council, will be held in the Waterfront Hall, at Hebden Bridge Town Hall, on Wednesday 23 May.

It will be open to flood wardens between 5pm and 6.30pm and to members of the local community between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.