RESIDENTS at a mobile home park were advised to leave their homes due to rising flood levels in the area.
The morning of January 28 saw residents of Iford Bridge Home Park being advised to leave their homes by BCP Council, after the Environment Agency stated that flood waters were expected to rise throughout the day.
Archie Hoggan has lived near the park for around the last 50 years and has seen flooding at the site almost every year.
He said: "I have lived here for around 50 years and I've seen it nearly every year."
Back in 1999, Mr Hoggan created a project surrounding the river, adding that he doesn't think he'll see a year where it doesn't flood to some extent.
With the road being blocked off to the general public, residents were being transported across the flooded areas by the Wessex flood rescue team.
Representatives from BCP Council were at the scene, as well as teams from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and Wessex Rescue Unit.
Another nearby resident, Marion, has lived in Christchurch for 63 years and despite not residing in the park, there's still feelings of panic that the flood wall will fail.
She said: "That flood wall, I don' t know what we'd do without it.
"It is worrying, you feel bad for the people there."
Speaking on floods from the past, Marion mentioned Christmas Day in 2013, stating that that's the worst it's ever been.
She said: "2013 was the worst, Christmas Day. That was quite frightening."
The park's residents gathered in the Iford Bridge pub nearby, working with BCP Council on accommodation and transportation arrangements where necessary, and offering comfort and guidance to those deciding to stay at the site.
As well as Iford Bridge Home Park, Redhill and Wheatpolot Park Homes were also flooded, with other emergency services called to the area.
Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council’s cabinet member for climate response, environment and Energy, said: “BCP Council officers are working with the Environment Agency to support local communities affected by flooding caused by Storm Chandra.
“We know this must be a worrying time for the residents of Iford Bridge Home Park and Redhill and Wheatplot Homes Sites impacted by flooding.
"Our team, along with emergency services, are currently on-site provide information, support and reassurance to those affected.”
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