Whaley Bridge dam collapse: Firefighters from across the Midlands join major operation

Firefighters from across the Midlands are helping with the on-going incident in Derbyshire with the partial collapse of the dam at Toddbrook Reservoir.

Over the last 24 hours, over 150 firefighters from Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service and fire services across the UK have been supporting the emergency response at Whaley Bridge.

Part of the dam at Toddbrook Reservoir has been severely damaged and thousands of homes in Whaley Bridge have been evacuated, with people spending last night in emergency accomodation.

400 tonnes of gravel is being airlifted to try and contain the water.

Derbyshire’s Chief Fire Officer Terry McDermott said:

Emergency services have been working overnight in Whaley Bridge, alongside the Environment Agency, ambulance, council workers and an RAF helicopter.

Read more:

• What's the history of the damaged Toddbrook Reservoir threatening Whaley Bridge?

• Whaley Bridge: 'There is still a risk the dam will fail – please stay away'

• RAF drafted in as thousands evacuated due to reservoir collapse fears

West Midlands Fire Service and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service are among the emergency services across the UK that have joined the operation.

Work is going on throughout the day to try to reinforce the reservoir wall and reduce the water level to allow easier access for repairs.

Assistant Chief Constable Kem Mehmet of Derbyshire Police has urged people to follow advice from emergency services and leave the area when asked to do so.

He said the evacuation was not a decision taken lightly, and "ultimately the safety of the public is our main concern."