POLITICIANS visited Frampton on Severn to meet those affected by flooding in the region.

Stroud MP Neil Carmichael visited the Gloucestershire village on Friday along with Cllr Haydn Jones, Stroud District Councillor for the Severn Ward.

They spoke with residents and saw the flood defences which have been put in place to limit damage caused by rising tides along the River Severn.

Mr Carmichael told the Gazette he was very impressed with what he saw.

“We went to see the magnificent effort the community has put into flood defences in Frampton,” he said. “I was very impressed to see the local response.”

During Prime Minister’s Questions last Wednesday Mr Carmichael asked David Cameron whether he could reassure constituents along the Valleys and Vale that the government would continue to invest in flood defences, to which the Prime Minister gave his assurance.

Mr Carmichael added: “We know that floods are devastating for those affected, but I am heartened by the agency and services co-operation and the impact it has had by protecting more homes than ever before.

“The government will continue to invest in flood defences and is spending at least £3.1 billion over this parliament to tackle flooding.”

His visit comes as Gloucestershire County Council announced a £50,000 flood relief fund to help support those whose homes have been hit by flooding.

Up to £1,000 is being offered per flooded property to help replace damaged furniture and essentials or to help with the most immediate needs.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood, said: “We’re doing as much as we can out on the ground to help people who are affected by the flooding but we know there are people whose homes or properties have been damaged.

“That’s why we are committing up to £50,000 to help people in the community respond to issues relating to flooding in their properties in their recent event.

“This is reinforcing our ongoing commitment to flood alleviation and supporting flood victims since 2007.”

To apply for the funding, register your details at the county council website www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/floodfund and someone will be in touch to discuss the application.