Fire service to the rescue

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A Great Dane called Brian was one of three dogs rescued from Christmas Day floods in Bedfordshire when the River Great Ouse burst its banks.

The 45kg dog who is two-years-old was rescued from a property in the village of Harrold by specialist rescue team from Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The Environment Agency has now lifted the severe flood warning that was in place covering the Great Ouse through Bedford.

The Environment Agency have advised that while high levels on the river are expected to remain over coming days we are not expecting levels like we saw passing through yesterday and today.

As a result, the emergency assistance centre at Bedford International Athletic Stadium has been stood down while the centre at Bromham Village Hall was stood down yesterday.

Flood warnings remain in place for the River Great Ouse including: Bedford, Kempston, Renhold, Great Barford, Roxton, Bromham, Biddenham, Felmersham, Sharnbrook, Bletsoe, Pavenham, Milton Ernest, Oakley, Clapham, Odell and Turvey.

Storm Bella is expected to bring rain and high winds overnight. The Environment Agency are advising that while river levels will remain high we should not see the level of impact seen locally in recent days, but the public are urged to stay vigilant, monitor the flood warnings, and stay prepared.

Officers are still out monitoring water levels and activity on the river. If your property is at risk of flooding and there is threat to life, please call 999 and ask for Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue. If you need assistance, there is support and advice available via the Council’s floodline on 01234 718007.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “A huge thank you must go to all the organisations, groups and volunteers who have been part of the response to this flood.

“From Council officers, emergency services, local flood groups, the very many volunteer groups who supported the effort and the numerous offers of support we received from the public – thank you to you all. It really does speak to Bedford Borough’s incredible community spirit.

“With flood warnings still in force, please keep being cautious and prepared. Do not drive or walk through floodwaters, and keep yourselves and your families safe.”

Flood alerts and warnings and further advice can be found here: https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/warnings

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