Norfolk surge: Firefighters from across England volunteer to help

Firefighters from across England have joined residents of a Norfolk village hit by a tidal surge 10 days ago to clear up debris and make homes safe.

Crews from London, Surrey and Kent are working with Norfolk firefighters and residents in Walcott.

Many residents lost homes and business premises as the worst sea storm for 60 years saw huge waves surge inland.

Norfolk chief fire officer Nigel Williams said crews were trained to work in rescue situations like this.

Volunteers have already spent two days in Walcott and Bacton, on the north Norfolk coast, helping residents.

They are helping return things to normal by removing debris, providing support to make structures safe and boarding up buildings.

Resilience of community

The firefighters will work in other priority areas along the damaged Norfolk coast during the coming week.

Mr Williams said: "Firefighters are helping to make a difference to the lives of people who have lost so much as a result of the floods.

"Crews are skilled and well-equipped to deal with situations such as this and I am pleased that so many have decided to volunteer to support the relief effort."

Tom FitzPatrick, leader of North Norfolk District Council, said: "The villages of Walcott and Bacton were badly hit by the tidal surge.

"District council staff have been on site every day since then, providing support and advice.

"The resilience shown by the local community has been remarkable, as has the generosity of so many people wanting to help in any way they can."