Flood issues dominated year, says mayor

12:03pm Monday 12th May 2008

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THE mayor of Droitwich has said flooding issues dominated his year in office but praised the townspeople for rallying around to help.

Coun Richard Morris spoke out as he prepared to stand down as mayor today.

He was elected at short notice, for the second time in three years, after deputy mayor Coun John Cook who was expected to take up the role, pulled out due to ill health.

Coun Morris said flooding on Friday, July 20, when twice the average July rainfall fell in one day, was his greatest challenge with 52 commercial properties affected in the High Street and Queen Street and at the leisure centre.

There were also 42 homes flooding in Vines Lane, Hunters Way, the Firs and Swan Drive.

Coun Morris said: "All have now moved back into their properties and most retailers are trading again.

"The emergency services, agencies and community have been excellent."

He praised the work of the Mayor's and Rotary Flood Fund which, with the help of the Lions club, raised £8,700 to help flood victims.

Coun Morris also said the visit of Prince Edward (Earl of Wessex) to Droitwich Rugby Club and the High Street in the aftermath of the disaster was a high point.

He said: "It was a privilege to escort the Earl down our High Street meeting as many traders as possible. "The Earl was very interested to hear everyone's story."

Coun Morris and his mother, Dorothy Morris, who was mayoress, attended more than 200 events and hope to raise about £6,000 for charity.

Coun Morris said: "These events have always been so rewarding and filled us with pride due to the work and goodwill of people in our community. Many people give time so willingly to help others and we appreciate all their work."