Wind Rescue Teams Praised

Chief Inspector Michael Naughton, the North Warwickshire District Commander has praised the actions of North Warwickshire Police and Community Support Officers, Partners and the Community for their outstanding response to managing incidents following the recent adverse weather conditions.

In a day that saw winds reported at speeds of 104 mph in the Coleshill and Atherstone area, the District received 52 emergency and 10 priority requests for Police attendance. With local Police resources stretched, North Warwickshire Borough Council Streetscape provided 12 much needed staff and vehicles with facilities to remove obstructions. Warwickshire County Council Highways Division were fully employed clearing hazards and making areas safe supported by the Emergency Planning Unit.

A public spirited response from our community, including ground staff from Merevale Estate and The Belfry, the local farming community and a host of volunteers, we were able to respond to requests and assist inclearing obstructions and alerting road users and members of the Public to hazards including fallen tree, fallen power cables, debris from roof’s and other objects blown about in the high wind.

Chief Inspector Naughton commented:

It is at times of need that real Partnership and Community spirit is demonstrated. I am proud ofthe actions of my staff, Partners and Community in the manner in which they rallied together to protect our Community. I wish to express my sincere thanks to all who helped throughout this period, from unknownindividuals who arrived at scenes with cutting equipment and clearing facilities, through to those behind thescenes who made it all happen. As a result of the actions of all those involved, I am pleased to announcethat no serious injuries were reported on our District.

Sergeant Ron Drake said,

Partners responded together to deal with the fallen trees and power lines all over the District. As a result most roads were passable within a short time and the fallen power lines were made safe. Some properties will be without electricity until repairs are made by the power companies. Some damage was caused but again this was made safe within a short space of time.