Bishop's Appeal Raises Thousands for Thames Valley Flood Victims

An appeal set up by the Bishop of Oxford has brought in more than £26,000 to support victims of the recent floods across the Thames Valley.

The fund is being broken up into grants for residents to help them replace their possessions damaged by the waters.

One grant has already gone towards warm clothing for an elderly lady forced to leave her home by the high waters, while other grants have helped ruined replace carpets and kitchen appliances.

The Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Rev John Pritchard, expressed his gratitude towards clergy and congregations from across the diocese "for responding so generously".

"We know many lives were turned upside down by the flooding, and the misery continues long after the water has receded," he said. "This fund is a way of offering practical, immediate support for people trying to rebuild their lives."

Thousands of people were affected across the Thames Valley as a result of torrential rains in July, many of whom were left homeless.

Church of England clergy were at the heart of relief efforts, providing emotional support to locals as well as shelter and community welfare.

The Bishop affirmed that the appeal is still open to applications from locals affected by the floods, including non-churchgoers.

"The church is in the heart of every community and dedicated to its well-being. The local clergy are in the ideal position to help identify needs on the ground. We welcome applications from all sectors of the community," said Bishop Pritchard.