The Duke of York spent the day in the county of his Dukedom, Yorkshire, to see the effects of the recent flooding.
Prince Andrew began in Leeds, where he paid Taylors Engineering Factory a visit. The company has been affected by the rising water levels, and are unable to open.
Continuing in the local area, the Duke said to volunteers and rescue workers, who have helped make the area safe and habitable again: “The work you have done is incredibly valuable – I am really encouraged to see Yorkshire communities pulling together.”
The Duke of York visited a local eatery to meet with those affected and hear their stories. (Duke of York Twitter)
PRINCE CHARLES LOSES QUEEN MOTHER’S GARDENS AT BIRKHALL IN FLOODS
The next stop for Andrew was Tadcaster, whose bridge recently fell into the water due to the fast flowing river which was at a higher than normal level. The Prince popped into Lemon Tree Bistro and Tearooms – but not for refreshment. Locals gathered in the venue to tell Andrew their personal experiences of what has been going on in the area.
Boxing Day floods caused the town’s only connection across the River Wharfe to become dangerously unstable, before half the bridge peeled away with the flow of water.
Prince Andrew visited the area, and spoke to a county council engineer about the reconstruction of the 18th century bridge. Asked for his reaction to the destruction he said: “Saddened to see such a wonderful old bridge in a damaged state.”
Prince Andrew views Tadcaster’s bridge, which was almost destroyed on Boxing Day. (Duke of York twitter)
The Duke also mentioned he has encountered ‘shock and devastation’ on his visit.”It’s been a very difficult time but I get a sense, talking to people both here and in Leeds, that the community has pulled together in a way that is really encouraging.”
Andrew’s brother, Prince Charles has been doing his bit for flood victims too: he has been calling in favours from contacts to assist, including Jim Walker of Walkers Shortbread, who sent biscuits to families affected in Ballater, near Balmoral.
The Prince of Wales has also set up two funds, one for England and Wales, the other for Scotland, to assist farmers affected by the floods.
The Duke thanks those who supported the effort of protecting the town and its residents. (Duke of York Twitter)
The Duke, 55, also toured the town’s church, which was knee-deep in water, and chatted to local businessmen and women who couldn’t protect their shops from the water.
His parting message in York was that of thanks to those who helped.
“Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to support York in the floods.”
Unable to land at Tomorden earlier due to poor weather, Andrew rescheduled and visited the town afterwards. Here he toured Cycle Factory, again meeting locals affected by the recent poor weather in their homes and businesses.
