Silt Scraped: Syston Cleans Up Ahead of Rain

In a significant community effort, 19 members of the Syston Community Flood Group recently worked to clear silt from Syston Brook. This action was undertaken to prepare for anticipated rainfall and comes after two years of severe flooding in January 2024 and 2025, which caused considerable damage to local homes and businesses.

Volunteers removed an estimated "two or three tonnes" of "absolutely solid" silt from the brook's channel. The Environment Agency assisted by removing the cleared silt and has committed to further works later this year, having previously removed 380 tonnes in early 2025. Local authorities praised the community's proactive approach.

Residents are being encouraged not to be complacent and to take preventative measures. Advice includes cleaning gullies and drains, and considering flood barriers or sandbags for properties. This preparation is crucial as "Mother Nature won't go away," according to one volunteer, emphasizing the ongoing need for readiness against potential deluges.