One year on from severe flooding, the Lincolnshire village of Pointon now has improved defences against future incidents, as a result of the efforts of a dedicated community group. The Pointon Emergency Group was initiated by local resident Sarah Hobbs, aged 62, in reaction to the widespread damage caused by floods in January 2024. After identifying that the relief ditches, which date back to the 1980s, had been neglected and blocked, the group took it upon themselves to try and rectify the situation. Despite repeated efforts, South Kesteven District Council have yet to provide any comment on the matter.
Together with around 20 other villagers, Sarah formed this group with the goal of preventing any further damage. She described how, previously, excess surface water had flowed downhill, submerging several homes in the process. According to the group, the key problem was that the relief ditches’ maintenance had been abandoned. “When a heavy rainstorm strikes, the water is unable to follow its expected path away from homes, meaning they get flooded,” explained Sarah. “It is vital that the authorities ensure that the ditches and drains are kept clear to allow for the best water flow possible.” These floods in January 2024 left several homes in such a state that they were deemed uninhabitable.
However, thanks to the determined work of the group, much-needed drainage and ditch clearance has taken place over the previous two months. Sarah said, “We wouldn’t have made the progress we have without the group’s tireless work.” Working alongside the Lincolnshire Resilience Forum, they have formulated a contingency plan in preparation for any future flooding. This includes setting up an emergency WhatsApp group and preparing a fully stocked hub in the village hall containing items such as walkie-talkies, sandbags, and flood signs. Sarah commended the renewed community spirit, which had been bolstered through their shared efforts. Kimberley Pickett, of the Lincolnshire County Council, praised the group’s efforts as an ‘excellent example of local resilience.’ Sarah was also recognised for her significant voluntary contribution, receiving the Individual 2025 Good Citizens Award.
This article has been adapted from the original report on www.bbc.com by The Lincoln Post.
