Prime Minister pays tribute to region’s flood-hit communities

David Cameron yesterday paid tribute to the “remarkable” efforts of people living in Hebden Bridge, Todmorden, Sowerby Bridge and Mytholmroyd, where homes and businesses were damaged in last Friday’s freak weather.

He was speaking at Prime Minister’s Questions in response to Calder Valley MP Craig Whittaker, who told MPs of the impressive public spirit now being shown in his embattled constituency.

“The Calder Valley flood victims Facebook page and the Community Foundation for Calderdale Just Giving page show great community spirit,” Mr Whittaker said.

“Also the arts festival, Mytholmroyd Gala and the Handmade Parade all going ahead this weekend shows a community’s resilience, and shows the Calder Valley is open for business.”

More than 500 properties in the valley affected by the flooding on Friday after an entire month’s rain fell in just a single day. Mr Cameron said the waters had been “damaging and dangerous” and paid tribute to the manner in which local people had coped with the deluge.

“While the recovery from floods is extremely difficult, the resilience of our communities and the amount of public and community service that comes out is remarkable, and really deserves our praise,” the Prime Minister said.

Earlier this week campaigners issued a fresh plea for the Government to finally reach a deal with insurers over replacing the existing agreement which ensures people in flood-risk areas can get affordable house insurance. The current deal is due to expire next summer.

Mr Cameron said: “We are going to work very hard with the industry to continue to deliver widely-available and affordable insurance in flood-risk areas.”

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