Flooded Hebden Royd holds delayed Christmas

Christmas decorations
Christmas celebrations are taking place to thank people who helped during the floods - which devastated the area six months ago

People in Hebden Bridge, Mytholmroyd and Cragg Vale celebrate "the Christmas that never was", six months after flooding devastated the area.

Thousands of homes and businesses in the region were damaged when Storm Eva battered the north of England during December's floods.

Organisers said it was an opportunity for the whole community to have a proper party.

The event featured snow machines and Christmas trees.

A brass band played to mark the occasion
The "elves" in the kitchen at Riverside School, Hebden Bridge, were responsible for preparing Christmas dinner
Anna Louise Crossley
Equipment, food and decorations for the Christmas dinner were donated by local businesses and officials
Anna Louise Crossley
There was also a surprise guest at the celebrations

There was also a Christmas lunch for volunteers who helped when the floods hit, with an unseasonal visit from Santa and a festive-themed market with live entertainment, including brass bands and choirs.

Organisers said: "It is our way of saying thank you to all the volunteers who helped on Boxing Day, and in the weeks that followed."

About 500 people attended a Christmas lunch event at Riverside School in Hebden Bridge.

During the December floods, a bus was swept down the street and sandbags were ripped up due to the force of the water running through the town.

AP
Homes and businesses had to be evacuated in Hebden Bridge during the floods
Getty Images
Residents battled against floodwater after the River Calder bursts its banks in Mytholmroyd, West Yorkshire

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