01/08/2008

North Ayrshire Town Suffers 'Serious Flooding'

Firefighters are tackling serious flooding in the North Ayrshire town of Kilbirnie.

It is reported that some parts of the town are under up to 1.5m of water, while the local police station has had to be evacuated.

The River Garnock burst its banks on Friday morning following severe weather conditions overnight.

Those in the Mill Court residential complex are said to be at most risk.

Thirty-five firefighters from six fire stations are involved in the clean up operation.

Additional units from Dalry, Johnstone, Dreghorn, Ardrossan and Largs were dispatched at the request of the officer in charge.

Group Commander of Strathclyde fire and rescue, Steve Fitch said: "One resident was removed from their home to safety while eight other residents were moved to the upper floor of their building and out of harm's way whilst preparations were made to temporarily relocate them."

Mr Fitch added that the "situation is now stable and flood waters are receding" although fire service crews remain at the scene.

A spokesperson for Strathclyde police said that "several" phone calls had been received from members of the public affected by the flooding from 7.50am this morning.

Scottish Ambulance staff who examined residents said "there was no individuals" giving cause for concern.

A Zodiac rescue boat is also being used in the town.

Council are making arrangements to provide alternative accommodation.

It is reported the flooding has also affected the Tesco store in Kilbirnie.

The River Garnock runs for more than 20 miles from its source in Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. It passes through the towns of Kilbirnie, Glengarnock, Dalry and Kilwinning.

(DS)(BMcC)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

03 March 2010
Suspicious Glasgow Car Fires
Detectives in Glasgow's East End are investigating a spate of vehicle fire attacks in the city yesterday. Shortly after 3.30am police were called to a report of a vehicle fire in Ashvale Crescent, Glasgow. Upon arrival police were advised by Strathclyde Fire Service that four vehicles had been damaged by fire.
21 July 2015
Museum Remains Closed Following Flood
Alyth Museum in Perth & Kinross is to remain closed until further notice, the local authority has announced, after the venue was damaged by flash flooding last Friday, 17 July.
08 May 2009
Heroic Tyne Firemen Honoured
Two Tyne and Wear firefighters are to be recognised for their bravery at a special ceremony today. Andrew Nelson and Allan Richardson will be presented with the Chief Fire Officer's Commendations for brave and meritorious conduct after saving a man's life. The men took part in a dramatic rescue in the early hours of 4 February.
31 August 2006
Firefighters launch four-day strike
More than 1,000 firefighters across Merseyside have begun a four-day strike in protest over planned job cuts. Another four-day stoppage is scheduled to begin two hours after the first one ends.
03 February 2014
Severe Flood Warnings Remain
High sea levels, strong winds and large waves will increase the risk of coastal flooding this week, according to the Environment Agency. Severe flood warnings are in force for along the River Severn today, as high sea levels and heavy rain threaten to cause further flooding.