A NEW action group aimed at reducing the risk of flooding in Chesham has been set up.

The Chesham Flood Action Group, which was officially launched last week, is made up of 13 residents who will work with water companies to help solve the town's flooding issues.

Last year Chesham town centre was badly affected by floodwater from the River Chess and Vale Brook and the group has been set up to encourage community-led solutions to the problem.

Richard Dunn, a member of the new group, said: "Being part of the Flood Action Group has raised my awareness of flooding in my town and shown me that I am not the only one affected. "I have learnt that there are other people within Chesham seeking answers to the town's ongoing flooding problem, and that by working together we can have an impact."

The formation of the group is part of the FloodSmart initiative, which was launched last year by Buckinghamshire County Council and other partners as part of Defra’s Flood Resilience Community Pathfinder scheme.

It will be led by residents and is affiliated to the National Flood Forum, a national charity supporting communities and people at risk of flooding and one of FloodSmart’s partners.

The group will work with councils, water companies and the Environment Agency to find ways to help reduce flood risk. Chesham’s Flood Action Group will be drafting its plan of action over the coming months and updates will be posted on the FloodSmart website at www.buckinghamshirepartnership.gov.uk/floodsmart.

Residents interested in joining, or who would like further information, can contact chairman Don Grant on chair.cheshamfloodactiongroup@outlook.com.