A GOVERNMENT minister has visited Bewdley to see the impact of the latest floods. 

Rebecca Pow, Floods Minister, visited the town on February 23 to see how the recent storms and extremely high river levels on the River Severn caused floodwaters to over-top temporary flood barriers.

Worcestershire County Council leader Simon Geraghty, cabinet member for the Environment, councillor Tony Miller and county councillor for Bewdley Ian Hardiman accompanied Rebecca on her visit.

Councillor Geraghty said he was pleased to accompany Rebecca on her visit.

He said: "It is really hard to appreciate the scale of the flooding and the impact it has on the town and the residents unless you can come and see it for yourselves.

“Today’s visit is a real sign of commitment from central government as we look to build on the progress we have made through our flood alleviation schemes and already completed flood defences at several locations across Worcestershire.

"You can see the positive effect of permanent flood defences on Severn Side, Bewdley thanks to our partners at the Environment Agency and it is vitally important that we work alongside them to continue to progress permanent flood defences for the other side of the river including Beales Corner.

"I’d like to take the opportunity to once again thank our residents, our officers and our partners for their continuing efforts as we head towards yet another recovery phase.”

The visit comes after the severe ‘danger to life’ flood warning was raised for Bewdley and water over-topped temporary barriers at Beales Corner.

In total, around 40 homes have been evacuated and Bewdley Bridge remains closed to all means of transport.

Floodwaters in Bewdley peaked on February 23 at 5.32metres.

A free pedestrian shuttle bus is running up to 6 pm taking residents between All Saints Church, Wribbenhall and Load Street, in Bewdley.