UPTON residents are being invited to take part in a new project to promote awareness and understanding of flooding.

The Lower Severn Community Flood Network is being launched by the University of Gloucester-shire, in partnership with organisations such as the Environment Agency and National Flood Forum.

It aims to document the flood history of towns along the lower part of the River Severn and get communities involved in preparing for future floods.

Parish and town councils, schools, the civic society and residents' groups will be invited to join. The project's steering group is also in talks with owners of Upton pubs about holding Saturday discussion forums.

Project manager Dr Lindsey McEwen said they had already had some response from Upton residents and were keen to hear from more.

"It's all about community engagement. We want to build up a database of flood histories in towns along the Severn using photos, personal recollections and other information," she said.

"We're keen to hear from anybody who's got memories of flooding."

The steering group hopes to set up a website with information about the causes and effects of flooding and methods of preventing it happening again.

A flood fair will be held at Tewkesbury School on February 27, from 10am to 4pm. To get involved with the project, call 01242 531970.