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Prescott praises 'superb' flood rescue response
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| Prescott: Visiting the scene |
John Prescott has praised the "absolutely superb" search and rescue operation following the flash flooding which wreaked havoc in the coastal village of Boscastle.
The deputy prime minister was on Tuesday visiting the scene of devastation in the Cornish village.
He arrived on the scene shortly before 8.00am - where he saw first hand the chaos and destruction caused by Monday's floods.
Speaking to the media he praised the "absolutely superb" emergency services.
"You can only admire the sheer professionalism of our service, which is a great comfort when we are in these difficulties, whether it's a train crash or a flood like this," said Prescott.
And he pledged government assistance for those who have lost their homes during the flood.
Briefing
Following a briefing from the emergency services, Prescott toured the outlying areas - visiting the harbour area.
Much of Boscastle remains no-go area following the intense flooding.
A major clean up operation is now underway.
Hundreds of people were airlifted to safety as the torrent destroyed property and swept cars into the river.
The floods came after two inches of rain fell in just two hours. Water poured through the village and power was turned off for safety reasons.
The flooding was as deep as 20 feet in the worst affected areas.
Water from two nearby rivers swept down from the moors and into the steep sided valley in which Boscastle lies.
Dozens of people had been left stranded on rooftops in the village as water levels rose.
Cars swept
Many cars, caravans and trees were swept away, causing damage to local buildings.
Pets and local livestock were also affected by the torrential waters.
Six military helicopters were despatched from RAF Kinloss to evacuate local people and tourists.
The deputy prime minister was also meeting people whose homes and businesses have been damaged by the flooding.
Earlier, he met people evacuated to a nearby holding centre in Camelford.
"I have been talking to the people who have immediately been hit," said the deputy prime minister.
"They have got some immediate problems. I am going to see how we can help them."
Police are appealing for the public to report anyone who they believe may be missing as a result of the flooding.
It is thought that up to three people may be missing following the flash flooding.
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