Government must cover flood rescue costs - Farron

South Lakes MP Tim Farron is calling on the government to reimburse Mountain Rescue services for almost £40,000 of costs incurred during Storm Desmond last winter. Tim has warned that the money is critical so they can replace damaged equipment and be prepared to react in a future emergency.

During last winter's floods caused by Storm Desmond, Mountain Rescue services played a critical role in reaching those stranded by the floods and rescuing them from danger.

However, the actions of Mountain Rescue led them to incur £17,000 of costs and damaged equipment, and an overall national cost of £38,000.

Tim has tabled a motion in parliament commending the "exceptional professionalism" and "selfless bravery" of the Mountain Rescue volunteers, and calling on the government to cover the losses they incurred during this period.

Tim said: "The floods last winter were utterly devastating for many areas of Cumbria, leaving many people stranded and in danger. Thankfully, Mountain Rescue groups were on hand to save people from the floods, often putting themselves in danger to secure the safety of others. Our whole community owes them a massive debt of gratitude.

"In recognition of this invaluable work, I am calling on the government to make an exceptional case for the costs they incurred in this period, and to reimburse them this money. This is critical so that the service can replace damaged equipment and is best able to react next time there is an emergency."