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10
May 2024
Knaresborough pulls together to help flood victims
Dozens of homes in Knaresborough were flooded in the space of minutes on Monday night when there was an unexpected downpour.
In the days since then, the town has been rallying round to help those affected.
The Stray Ferret covered the immediate aftermath of the storm. But in the days since, charities, volunteers and councils have been working together to help people find accommodation and provide other practical support.
A community hub has been established at Chain Lane Community Centre where all those involved in the effort, including Knaresborough Town Council and North Yorkshire Council, are helping.
We visited this morning to find out more.
Sue Vasey, chief executive of the community centre, said people can receive financial and emotional support, insurance advice and guidance on the damage to their homes, as well as the opportunity to speak about alternative accommodation.
Ms Vasey said:
Ms Vasey said 48 households have so far come forward seeking support after their homes were damaged by the flood, but she feels there are people still struggling alone.
The flooding on Monday.
She also praised the town and those involved in the recovery process for “stepping up”:
Ms Vasey said the hub has also been assisted by North Yorkshire Council’s major incident response unit, adding it had been “absolutely amazing”.
After the flooding, questions were raised about the condition of the drainage systems in Knaresborough, with some people pointing the finger at the council.
When asked if she shared these concerns, Ms Vasey said:
Chain Lane Community Centre is open for free help until 6pm today (Friday, May 10).
It will resume normal working hours (9am to 1pm) next week, but Ms Vasey said people can still come forward to access support.
If you have been impacted by the flooding, you can visit the community centre on Chain Lane, call 01423 861066 or email info@chainlane.org to begin the support process.
Read more:
- Starbucks reveals opening date for new Harrogate drive-through
- Heavy rain causes Starbeck church ceiling to collapse
- 'Our home is ruined': residents face up to aftermath of Knaresborough floods
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