An animal rescue team has been deployed to
Whaley Bridge to help find pets left behind after residents were told to leave immediately.
Thousands of people have been evacuated from the town after excessive flooding caused the Toddbrook Reservoir dam to collapse. The town’s 6,500 residents are being told they will need to find alternative accommodation until the wall that protects Whaley Bridge from millions of gallons of water can be secured.
Some people were told to leave as soon as possible while others who work out of town have been told they won’t be allowed to return home – even to pick up pets. As a result, Animal Search UK announced they will be on 24 hour stand-by to save any pets left behind.
Residents who were not at home at the time the evacuation was announced are concerned about how they will retrieve their animals. Evacuees are being told to meet at Chapel High School, Chapel-en-le-Frith, around four miles away from the town centre. The pet rescue team say they will work around the clock to ensure people are reunited with their pets and are already responding to requests from owners in the area. Animal Search have urged people to contact their 24 hour helpline if they are concerned about the whereabouts of their pets. Owners can contact the team on 01244 355 247 It is not known how long people will have to stay away from the town, but police have warned people to take pets with them and enough medication for a number of days. Derbyshire police said: ‘Residents are asked to make alternative arrangements to stay with friends and family, ensure that any pets are taken with them and that all medication that may be needed for a number of days is taken with them. ‘If people do not have somewhere to go then they will be accommodated, however, there is limited capacity to do so. ‘If you are unable to leave your own home and require assistance please contact 101 and ask for the police.’