PRAYERS are being said across the Diocese of St Asaph for towns and villages affected by flooding.

Llanrwst and the villages of Llanfair Talhaiarn, near Abergele, Llansannan and Llangernyw have been particularly badly affected with homes flooded, businesses closed, and people evacuated to temporary accommodation.

Members of those church congregations worked alongside friends and neighbours to offer practical help and support to those in need.

Parts of the city of St Asaph, roads near Bangor on Dee and areas around Corwen were also badly affected by Storm Ciara and Dennis.

Revd Gwenda Cooper, vicar of Llanfair Talhaiarn, Llansannan and Llangernyw, said: “The flooding caused by Storm Ciara was the worst I’ve ever seen it. The main road and fields were like a lake.

"The second storm, Dennis, caused problems for the community of Llanfair Talhaiarn and members of the congregation at St Mary’s church joined others from the community in turning the local Memorial Hall into a shelter for those affected.

"I know some people have had to leave their homes and are staying with family and friends while flood damage is repaired.

"I have been remembering all those affected by the flooding in my prayers.”

In Llanrwst, Revd Sarah Hildreth-Osborne paid tribute to the emergency services and all those in the community who offered practical help and support.

She said: “These storms have wreaked havoc in the town with some business owners telling me they won’t be able to re-open. There is a real sense of dis-ease among the whole community but people pulled together and are continuing to help each other.

“During the worst of Storm Ciara, people gathered at midnight to fill sandbags to prevent further flooding to the town. The town’s family centre is offering bedding, clothing and toys to people whose homes and possessions have been destroyed.”

The Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt Revd Gregory Cameron, said: “I have watched with dismay the disruption and devastation suffered in many parts of our Diocese and in other parts of the country.

"At times like this it can be hard to see beyond the distress, but there are some wonderful stories of community spirit; people filling sand bags, rescuing neighbours, shoring up defences with tractors, offering shelter to those displaced and coming together to help those in greatest need, responding with generosity and kindness.

“I wish to assure you of my prayers for those who have tragically lost their homes and businesses as a result of the recent storms.”