Storm Bert: RAF and Air Cadets raise £1000s to help with recovery work

In Chippenham, the Air Cadets say they're still unable to access the full extent of the damage following Storm Bert.

A barber shop in Chippenham
Author: Oliver MorganPublished 28th Nov 2024

As people across the South West continue to assess the extent of the damage - youth groups say they're still unable to assess the full extent of the damage following Storm Bert.

Read more: Storm Bert: Wiltshire Council defends response to devastating flooding

The impact of the flooding following Storm Bert has been devastating, with dozens of businesses and community groups still trying to work out what has been lost - and what can be saved.

One of those is the RAF Air Cadets in Chippenham - who are now appealing for help after water levels 'rose to at least 4 feet' earlier this week.

On Facebook, they said: "Many people in the wider Chippenham community have been seriously impacted by the devastating floods from Storm Bert. 1304 Chippenham Air Cadets squadron is no different. The waters rose to at least 4 feet at the squadron, affecting our main building and storage containers.

"We remain unable to access the unit to assess the full extent of the damage, but we expect to lose a significant amount of uniforms, teaching equipment, first aid teaching kit, furniture and technological equipment.

"The unit provides a space for young more than 40 young people twice a week, many of whom aspire to join the military. The squadron has a long history in the town, which boasts fighter pilots, Falklands veterans and airline pilots among the thousands who have been a part of it.

"As a Civilian Committee we want to continue supporting the staff and cadets at the unit and we need to your help to do so. Anything you feel you can give will be used in the best way possible to support the squadron. Huge thanks. 1304 CivCom."

Local MP for Chippenham Sarah Gibson is one of the many local stakeholders to visit the area this week, to assess the situation, and help deal with the aftermath.

She told us: "I've been mucking in - as the recovery effort continues - helping several residents find housing for the next few days, mopping out properties, and I've been to the Scouts hut who unfortunately were burgled last year - they've just got back on their feet, and have been completely and utterly flooded."

Read more: Storm Bert: shocked residents in Chippenham begin flood recovery

The Met Office is claiming that it is "committed to learning the lessons" from Storm Bert.

But forecasters also insist rainfall totals were in line with predictions - following criticism from some residents and ministers that "insufficient" warning was given.

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