Families in Wigan were left devastated after New Year’s Day flooding wreaked havoc on their homes, leading to a heartwarming rescue mission involving firefighters and volunteers. Michael Abram and his family were rudely awakened at 6.30am to the news that their car had been engulfed by floodwaters outside their terraced house. With their Christmas presents and belongings destroyed, the Abrams found solace in the heroic efforts of the fire service, who escorted them to safety at a nearby McDonald’s in a boat.
The flooding in the area, particularly on Templeton Road in Platt Bridge, reached over four feet deep, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses like Iceland and Home Bargains stores. The community rallied together, with St Nathaniel’s Church welcoming evacuated families and volunteers Lisa Aldred and Becca Bamber coordinating donations of clothing and food for those affected. Despite the devastation, residents expressed gratitude for the support shown by their neighbours during this challenging time.
Local authorities worked tirelessly to provide emergency accommodation for those displaced by the floods, with individuals recounting the suddenness and severity of the storm. Gareth Lee, manager of the Iceland store, described the significant losses incurred due to the floodwaters, as he and his team faced the daunting task of cleaning up and restoring the store to its former state.
Josh Simons, Makerfield MP, took action by initiating a crowdfund page to aid in the recovery efforts for the affected areas within the Wigan borough. He highlighted the resilience of the community and emphasised the need for long-term flood prevention strategies to safeguard the towns in his constituency.
The aftermath of the flooding serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. As families work to rebuild their lives, the unity and solidarity displayed amongst neighbours and local authorities offer a beacon of hope for a brighter future amidst the challenges brought by the floodwaters.