VILLAGERS RALLIED together as some of the worst floods seen locally in decades hit Saddleworth on Boxing Day, washing through businesses and homes across the area.
In Uppermill, the River Tame swelled and burst its banks, flooding into businesses along the High Street including the Post Office, Kitty’s Café and The Little Shop.
Villagers gathered to pump out the water and clean up, as well as lay sandbags to prevent more water washing in.
Diane Sheldon, who runs The Little Shop, said: “We would like to thank everyone who helped with the flood water.
“Although we have suffered flood damage the guys who worked so hard managed to prevent it from being so much worse.”
Elsewhere in Greenfield, Well-i-Hole and Chew Valley Road quickly became impassable as the River Tame once more burst its banks, submerging the roads entirely.
At Saddleworth Cricket Club, the pitch and bowling green both disappeared under a sea of water, and the same occurred at Greenfield.
Delph New Road was closed to traffic as water cascaded over the surface, and in Dobcross new rivers wound their way quickly down the hilly roads.
Oldham Council highways teams worked along emergency services to respond to as many of the most critical incidents across the borough as possible.
A council spokesperson said: “Water levels are being monitored and emergency plans are in place should any residents in the area need to leave their homes.
“If anyone needs to report any critical issues please call 0161 770 2222.”
Meanwhile, Oldham Mountain Rescue Team sprung into action to help people across the borough as well as Greater Manchester, as floods affected the whole region.
Find out more about flooding in the area and how to protect your home via the Oldham Council website.
