Flood victims evacuated as storms lash the North West
SCORES of people were rescued from flash floods yesterday as heavy rain caused disruption across north-west England and north Wales.
More than 70 residents were evacuated from homes by emergency services in north Lancashire in the early hours. A number of roads were submerged and cars left under water, with 27 residents evacuated from their homes in the village of Galgate, near Lancaster, before sheltering in pubs overnight.
Lancashire Constabulary said emergency services, the Environment Agency and Lancaster City Council had more than 500 flood-related calls and attended more than 100 incidents.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said more than 70 people had been rescued, along with at least 20 horses, a cat and a dog.
The Met Office said around 1.7in of rain had fallen in 24 hours in parts of Lancashire, while further north in Cumbria around half a month’s rain, 3.5in, was recorded in 36 hours at Shap. Rail operator Northern said flooding had stopped services between Lancaster and Morecambe, Carlisle, Oxenholme and Windermere.
Large parts of Scotland were also hit by snow. Wintry showers brought up to 2in of snow to many parts and up to 7.9in on high ground.
Highland council said most roads were affected.
Meanwhile, a bishop prayed for an accident-free winter as he blessed a fleet of 43 gritters.
The Bishop of Grimsby, the Rt Rev David Court, presided over the annual ceremony at Sturton-by-stow depot in Lincolnshire.