Statement on behalf of the Derbyshire Local Resilience Forum

Over the last three days Derbyshire has seen unprecedented flooding across large parts of the county.

Hundreds of people have been evacuated from their homes as flood waters reached record levels in many areas.

A major incident was declared on Friday and partner agencies across the county have been working together every hour since in response.

One of the areas particularly affected was Chesterfield and, due to the number of properties affected, rest centres were set up for residents to take shelter.

Sadly, it has been confirmed today that one person has lost their life during the incident.

On Saturday (21 October) Derbyshire Constabulary was contacted to reports that a woman had been found at her home in Tapton Terrace.

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, East Midlands Ambulance Service and police officers arrived at the flat and found a woman, aged in her 80s, inside.

Her family are aware and the thoughts of every partner agency are with them at this sad time.

Understandably there are questions surrounding her death – and there is an ongoing police investigation into the circumstances.

At the same time as those enquiries the recovery operation continues to ensure all areas affected are made safe and that people can return to their homes as soon as they are able.

Flood water in many parts of the county is beginning to recede although river levels in the south of the county are expected to continue to rise throughout the day.

If you must travel, please keep safe on the roads and expect some disruption as debris and mud may have damaged local roads. Never drive or walk into flood water even if it appears shallow – it could endanger your life.

Advice is available online for anyone whose home has been affected by flooding on the following websites:

National Flood Forum – www.nationalfloodforum.org.uk

Gov.uk – www.check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk

Flood Assist – www.floodassist.co.uk/insurance/flood-re-insurance

Derbyshire Local Resilience Forum (LRF) is a partnership of agencies who provide a strategic oversight and co-ordination of emergency planning in Derbyshire in accordance with the requirements of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004.

The LRF is made up of emergency services, local authorities, the NHS and the Environment Agency.