Gloucestershire Floods – News from Tewkesbury

Father Richard Dwyer, Parish Priest of St Joseph’s, Tewkesbury whose church is cut off by flood water, said, “The spirit of the community here in Tewkesbury is very positive. So many people helping and supporting one another, is to me, an example of the Holy Spirit at work. I see determined people pulling together.

“The doctor’s surgery close to the Abbey has been flooded. I’ve been trying to get in touch, but so far in vain, to offer our, albeit rather small, facilities to them. I also know that Holy Trinity, our neighbouring Anglican parish, is offering to put people up. Again, this is our strong community working together. Of course, when those evacuated return to their homes, their need for help in rebuilding their homes and lives will be something needing our full attention and support.

“In town this morning (Monday) many people have said this is the worst flooding here in living memory.

“The congregation was around 30 this Sunday as most parishioners live in the area now cut off by the water.

“I have been receiving offers of help from far afield. One offer, from a Catholic family, was to provide a holiday respite in a quieter and unaffected part of the country. This is really touching many people’s hearts. It shows how the media’s work of bringing a particular situation to a wider audience can have many positive repercussions and responses.”