Horncastle Residents Cope with Aftermath of Storm Babet
Horncastle residents are grappling with the devastating effects of Storm Babet that occurred on Friday, October 20. With severe rainfall causing two months’ worth of flooding in the Lincolnshire area, numerous homes were drastically damaged. Despite previously benefitting from an £8.1 million Flood Alleviation Scheme, locals report the flood defences were insufficient in protecting their town and outlying villages.
Impact on Local Residents
Amanda Eastwood, 53, was among the unfortunate residents who suffered from the flood's aftereffects. Eastwood was warned about her inundated home by a friend, forcing her to evacuate along with her daughter and their pet dog. Recalling the incident, she stated, “I have no home now.”
Similarly, 27-year-old India Gillender and her partner, Reece, were left homeless due to the flood. Having lost almost all of their belongings, they are currently staying with Reece’s parents. India spoke candidly of their plight, “All I’ve got is what I’m wearing, my dog and my partner. We’re lucky to have a family like that but I know a lot of people don’t.”
Community Efforts
Suffering citizens found solace and support at the Horncastle & District Community Centre. Isabel Forrester, an affected resident and trustee of the Horncastle Crisis Support Team, reported that their drop-in session was attended by 40-50 households seeking help on the matter. She and her team have planned another guidance session for later this week.
East Lindsey district councillors, Richard Avison and William Gray, were also present at the drop-in sessions. They encouraged affected residents to seek support via [email protected].
Looking Ahead
While new concerns arose about further rainfall, reassurances were given that it is not expected to be as severe as that over the weekend. “The District Council and the County Council are here to help as much as we can,” said Councillor Gray. Nonetheless, with the recent disaster, residents are calling on local authorities to ensure a catastrophe of this magnitude does not repeat itself.