ACTION to ensure Chippenham is ready if it is hit by flooding or a natural emergency is underway with the introduction of a new flood warden team.

The town is working with Wiltshire Council on an emergency plan that would into action if the area were hit by floods, a natural disaster or civic emergency.

Part of the work is to build a team of volunteer community flood and emergency wardens, assisted by the Environment Agency.

Wiltshire councillor Peter Hutton, the portfolio holder for emergency planning, said: “There has been a lot of work across Wiltshire following the extensive flooding two winters ago. We have run emergency planning workshops with our town and parish councils to ensure plans are in place to make sure we’re fully prepared.

“I am delighted that the town council has taken delivery of a full flood emergency kit that is now housed at the Town Hall in Chippenham. Now we’re looking to recruit volunteer wardens from our community to work with us.”

Chippenham mayor and town councillor David Powell said: “The town council is pleased to be supporting emergency planning to ensure Chippenham is fully prepared. This is a community minded town so we hope people will come forward to be wardens and help us ensure Chippenham is ready in case of an emergency.”

The wardens will work in the community year round to identify people who would need extra help if there should be an emergency and help plan the best way to respond.

If you are interested in becoming a Chippenham flood emergency warden call 01249 446699 or email enquiries@chippenham.gov.uk