For immediate release
03 July 2007
 
John Healey MP visits flood victims in Dearne
 
Local MP John Healey visited businesses and residents affected by the flooding in his constituency last week to see for himself the devastation caused by the unprecedented rainfall in our region.
 
The MP met with local businesses on Station Road in Wath, including Wath Rubber, Lightman engineering, and Sub Aqua Divers, and visited residents to see the damage the floodwater had caused to their homes.
 
Sub Aqua Divers was one of the businesses most affected. One of the owners Mike Atkinson said:
 
"We had to salvage what we could but the water came in so quickly most of my equipment and stock has been ruined. I am worried this will mean the end for my business and I just don't know which way to turn.
 
"I need at least £1,000 now to clean up the damage caused and to help keep my business going.
 
"Whilst we will be severely restricted in the services we can offer, if people call us we will do our best to serve them.
 
"We look forward to our customers continued support."
 
John Healey MP said:
 
"The flooding has had a devastating effect on Mike's business. Both Mike and his wife Jill have put so much work into Sub Aqua, to see it like this is really upsetting. I will do everything I can to ensure they get the support they need to get their business back up and running again.

"From the householders I met and from others who have contacted me, my first concern is getting the insurers out to damaged properties without delay to check the damage and to ensure that people can get on with the long task of cleaning up and trying to restore their homes. I have been in touch with insurance companies already to urge them to act quickly."
 
- ENDS -
 
Notes for Editors:
For more information please contact Joanne Wilson, Research Officer to John Healey MP on Tel - 01709 512463 or email - wilsonjo@parliament.uk