A HOTEL played its part in the Marlow flood-relief effort by lowering its prices for those forced out of their homes by last week’s floods.

The Crowne Plaza has taken in several evacuees since river levels rose to near-record levels nearly two weeks ago.

As well as offering cut-price rooms, the hotel’s health and fitness club was opened up for affected residents to shower and complimentary teas and coffees were handed out.

Around 60 military personnel stationed in the area made use of the facilities, with four firemen enjoying a well-earned free meal in the hotel’s café and bar.

And after families began checking in without toys for their children, a Facebook appeal received a huge response, with businesses and fellow Marlovians rallying round to drop off toys, clothes, baby milk and board games.

General Manager Richard Storey said: "The response from the community and local businesses has been overwhelming and moving.

"The volume of donations which have been delivered to our hotel over the course of this week has been astounding.

"Not only have we set up a play room, we have enough toys to donate to local hostels, playgroups and charities. Our thoughts go out to everyone who has been affected and we will continue to offer support in any way we can."

Hotel staff also paid a visit to the multi-agency incident centre on Pound Lane to deliver food and drink to emegrnecy service crews.