As we reach the ten-month mark since the formation of the Three Villages Flood Group, it’s a great time to pause, take stock, and reflect on just how far we’ve come together.
What began as a grassroots effort to protect our villages from flooding has grown into a recognised, respected and proactive community initiative. Through collaboration, hard work, and a shared determination, we’ve laid the foundations for long-term resilience- and we’ve done it together.
Our Key Achievements So Far:
• Community Flood Plan – We now have a live, working Flood Plan, tailored to our villages and shaped by local knowledge. It’s a practical, evolving document that helps us stay ready and coordinated.
• Fully Equipped Flood Wardens – Our fantastic team of Flood Wardens are now fully equipped and ready to respond. Their commitment and training provide vital reassurance when it matters most.
• Adopt a Drain Scheme – This community-driven initiative has launched successfully, bringing neighbours together to take simple, effective action in preventing blockages before they cause problems.
• Building Strong Partnerships – We’ve established open and constructive working relationships with:
• Somerset Highways
• The Environment Agency (EA)
• Wessex Water
• The Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA)
These links have helped put our concerns and ideas directly into the right conversations.
• Backing from Local Councils – We’ve built mutual trust with both the Mudford Parish Council (MPC) and the Village Hall Committee (VH). Their support has helped drive forward key projects and successful funding bids.
• A Successful Launch Day – Our official launch on April 5th was a real highlight, supported by Sarah Dyke MP and Cllr Mike Stanton. It marked a new chapter in our visibility and influence.
• Funding Successes – Thanks to successful applications to the SRA and MPC, we’ve secured vital funding for community resilience projects and equipment.
• Recognition as a Community Voice – We’re now widely recognised as the voice of our community on flooding matters — not only locally, but across the region.
• Media Presence – Our growing profile has led to positive media coverage, including acknowledgements and interviews with local TV and news outlets. This helps keep flooding on the agenda and shows how local action can lead to real change.
• Dynamic Online Presence – Our website and social media channels have become go-to places for updates, information, and community involvement. The feedback has been incredibly encouraging — thank you!
• New Projects Underway – We’re proud to be working with FWAG (Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group) and the Yeovil Rivers Community Trust, exploring sustainable flood management with local landowners.
• Ongoing Engagement with Stakeholders – Dialogue continues with Sarah Dyke MP, and we are actively involved in:
Dredging discussions with the EA – The start of a proactive jetting programme to help tackle blockages before they become problems.
Looking Ahead
Our group is founded on community spirit, local knowledge, and a shared desire to protect what we love. There’s still much to do — but our achievements so far show what’s possible when people work together.
Thank you to everyone who has supported, contributed, and cheered us on over the past 10 months. If you’re new to the group, we’d love you to get involved — whether it’s adopting a drain, sharing your knowledge, or simply staying informed.
Together, we’re making a real difference.
3 Villages Flood Group