A MAN who faced the threat of flooding in 2007 now spends his days making sure residents in Louth are more informed about the possible risks to their own homes.

Darren Hobson is Louth’s flood warden whose voluntary role covers homes and businesses on the River Lud in the town.

Together with the Environment Agency he will be issuing flood packs and guidance on the new flood warning system to homes at risk of flooding as the town’s Second World War sirens are being phased out.

Darren, who is a teacher at Kidgate Primary School, wanted to become involved in doing something for the community after he experienced water lapping up onto his doorstep in Wellington Street during the 2007 floods.

He said: “I felt after that time, I wanted to become more involved with the community. I attended a meeting on the floods in October 2008 where I registered my interest as a flood warden. In the time since then I have worked with the River Lud Liaison committee which has been very productive.

“In times of a threat of flooding, my role is to make people aware of the risk and let people know of possible risks they may not be aware of.

“My role also includes informing people about how they can live in a safer environment and what they can do to minimise any potential impact of flooding.”

If the town is hit with a flooding incident, Darren is the eyes and ears for the Environment Agency as he will liaise with them on the situation in Louth at that time.

In the next few weeks, all properties considered at risk of flooding in Louth will receive an information pack about the new flood warning telephone system run by the Environment Agency.

Instead of hearing the town’s flood sirens, homes and businesses considered at risk of flooding who are not currently registered to receive warnings will automatically be signed up to the free telephone service.

Darren is also working on a community flood plan which highlights information on how to help vulnerable residents, what to do if flooding occurs and what community facilities in the town are available for use by the emergency services.

To contact Darren or for more information about flooding issues telephone 07952 235912 or email darrenhobson@aol.com

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