VILLAGERS are being urged to do their bit for the community should the worst happen.

The Powick and Callow End Parish Council is asking residents with skills which could be useful in a civil emergency to step forward.

Janet Bowen, parish councillor, said: “For the moment we would like our parishioners to let us know if they have a useful skill or knowledge like nursing or fire-fighting.

“Alternatively, they may have access to equipment like tractors or water-pumps which could be useful in an emergency.”

The council set up the Parish Emergency Support Team (PEST) In the wake of the last summer’s flooding which all but cut off the villages from civilisation.

Coun Bowen added: “Although it is not in our power to prevent disasters we may be better prepared to deal with them.”

People can contact parish council clerk Michelle Phillips by emailing council@powickparish.org.uk