Operation mopping-up

UNDER water . . . the Lifestyle Fitness Centre on Wellington Road

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A MASSIVE clean up operation swung into action today in the wake of torrential rain which saw a month's rain fall in a single evening across the area.

And the flooding brought fear to Saddleworth villages in a night of mayhem.

The freak deluges, driven by gale force winds, wrought havoc closing roads, flooding homes and businesses and creating chaos on trains and public transport.

Mossley was described by distraught residents as "looking like Venice" with areas cut off by flood waters leaving residents marooned in their homes.

In Saddleworth, almost four inches of rain fell with valiant neighbours turning out to help stranded villagers and using brooms and brushes in attempts to keep surging waters entering houses.

At one point, there was a plea to Oldham council for extra sandbags to keep the rising waters threatening to deluge homes at bay.

Passersby helped push cars to safety as their frightened occupants battled to steer through swollen streams which had burst their banks covering the road surface in more than two feet of water.

Homeowners and businesses threw open their doors offering beds for the night to folks whose homes had been damaged by floods.

"A real wartime spirit prevailed," said one stalwart Saddleworth villager. "Everyone has mucked in and helped out."

Pockets of property across the community suffered flood damage and Oldham Mountain Rescue Team supported the stretched resources of police and other services.

Damage was sustained at Uppermill medical centre and patients booked in for today were advised to ring first as disruption was likely.

National Rail announced services between Staybridge and Huddersfield would be running but delays and cancellations are expected.

On social media, Oldham Council said :"Our thoughts are with all affected everywhere by tonight - and our thanks go to our brilliant residents and partners. "

Anyone affected by flooding should call the Environment Agency's 24-hour floodline 0345 988 1188