A NEW task force is coming to the rescue of Rossendale traders and residents at risk of flooding.

The Bacup Flood committee is made up of organisations including Bacup Hub, Bacup Pride and Bacup Traders Association The group has donated £600 of their own money to put together 100 flood packs to be delivered to flood-hit traders in the town.

The packs include high visibility jackets, inflatable and reusable sandbags, and contact details of individuals and organisations to offer practical help if businesses become flooded.

The committee aims to roll out the scheme over the next 18 months to hand out packs and support to residents and traders.

Catherine Chadwick, owner of Bacup Hub, said: "The River Irwell keeps blocking, and because Bacup’s a heritage town, their isn’t steep enough curbs so it’s spilling over the curbs and into the shops.

“The Irwell Inn in Burnley Road gets flooded every year, as do other places, and it’s a massive job to sort it out.

“People often don’t know who to ring or what to do in those situations, which is why we’re putting together the packs.

“We’d like people to get involved with us who have surveying knowledge, or a good knowledge of the town, who know where problems might arise.

“We’d also like people to get involved with the actual physical side, for instance if somebody needs help clearing their shop or business if it’s flooded.

“The more people we have in the group, the better we’ll be able to target problem areas.

“I think there should be more help from United Utilities and the council, but they can’t help us without knowing about the problem.

“I’m excited about what we can achieve.”

David Pawlaszek-Lawrie, of Bacup Traders Association, said: “We are willing and happy to act as support with an ultimate goal of helping build a better town.”

The committee, which also includes Steve Berry of Bacup Pride, will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, January 15 in 16 Market Street at 12.30pm.

To contact the group, call Catherine on 01706 557127.