CLEAN up operations and support work are continuing after Storm Arwen wreaked havoc across the region over the weekend.
Thousands of homes remain without power following two days of severe weather conditions including 70mph gales and heavy snow.
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Last night officers from Crook and Stanhope police teams continued to work with local partner agencies to help vulnerable residents.
This included delivering hot meals and gas stoves to residents in the Weardale area while they face the struggles of being without power and phone signal.
Officers visiting vulnerable residents in Weardale last night Picture: Durham Police
A police spokesmand said: "Officers would like to encourage residents to continue to support their neighbours, check in on those who may be elderly or live alone.
"Please contact local police on 101 to report any concerns you have for those who may be vulnerable at this time."
In North Yorkshire, council teams, the emergency services, farming contractors who help clear roads have all supported each other to protect residents.
District and borough councils have worked with the County Council to identify residents who were vulnerable as a result of the storm.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service worked with the council over the weekend to check on people without heating and light due to power cuts, calling in on care homes and taking heaters and equipment to isolated, frail or elderly residents.
NY Highways and the County Council’s highways teams worked around the clock to keep roads clear and deal with 200 reports of fallen trees.
They were supported by farmer contractors in clearing roads, and, where necessary, brought in a specialist contractor to remove fallen trees from roads.
A farmer contractor’s vehicle ready to support the effort in Ampleforth
The response has been coordinated through the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, which brings together all organisations with a part to play in helping communities.
Neil Irving, on behalf of the Forum, said: “Agencies and communities have come together once again during and after Storm Arwen to support and protect the county’s residents and to keep the road network open.”
All major routes were open yesterday, but work continued to clear some minor roads in remote areas, and the teams responded to specific calls for help, for example from farmers needing to move food stocks.
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Wintry showers are forecast later in the week and highways crews are prepared, as such weather is not unusual for this time of year.
People should make sure they and their vehicle are prepared if they need to travel.
Northern Powergrid say they are receiving a high number of calls due to some homes still being without power and anyone in a dangerous or medically vulnerable position should contact them on 105 or visit northernpowergrid.com
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