Floods relief charities' joy

The move is part of a multi-million pound package of Government support for areas hit by Storms Desmond and Eva at the end of last year.

Communities Secretary Greg Clark confirmed that the Government will match, pound for pound, the funds raised by charities and community groups in flood-hit areas.

Mr Clark praised the dedication and commitment of charity groups and community foundations in raising the funds, and providing vital support to those “when they needed it most”.

Parish councillor Stuart Laverick has played a key role in fund-raising in Croston, near Chorley, which was devastated by floods.

The fund now stands at around £56,000 – all of which may be matched by the Government.

Coun Laverick said: “It’s excellent news. It makes our decision as to who receives funding a bit easier – and means we can be more generous.”

Mr Clark said: “Whether it was helping with the clean-up operation, offering food and blankets or putting people in touch with much-needed legal or financial advice, an army of volunteers offered considerable support to people when they needed it most.”

The flooding also hit communities in the Ribble Valley, including Ribchester, as well as towns and villages in the North of the county, including Lancaster and St Michael’s. All of those will also benefit from the matched funding.

More than £40m has been added to the country’s flood defence budget since the storms.