ELECTRONIC flood warning signs have now been installed on the approach road to Dipper Mill River crossing near Shebbear.

The illuminated signs will operate to warn motorists of high water levels especially at night when visibility is reduced. The installation includes a separate text and email alert system for key personnel.

In addition to this the public will be able to view the current status and recent history of water levels on the internet, allowing locals to plan safe routes during periods of heavy rain.

A recent nearby event has highlighted the dangers of river crossings when a woman and her daughter were swept away in their car while trying to cross at Sheepwash Bridge after dark.

On that occasion the car and occupants were carried downstream and became lodged under trees where a helicopter crew were unable to reach them.

They were eventually rescued by fire brigade dingy but endured a terrifying ordeal with the car beginning to move again just before their rescue.

The determination of Coham Bridge District Councillor Phillip Hackett to do something about this led to a successful application to the Pathfinder Fund set up by the Government to address coastal flooding issues.

This is the first of three installations that Councillor Hackett hopes to achieve with the other two planned for Sheepwash and Black Torrington crossings.

Councillor Hackett said: ‘Hearing about some of the close calls motorists have experienced during the recent unprecedented flooding I was determined to do something about it.

‘Along with the help of my fellow Councillor David Hurley and Shebbear Parish Council, who have agreed to cover ongoing maintenance, we now have a practical solution in place that will make life a lot safer for everyone.

‘Not only will people be alerted if they are out and about driving but everyone including the emergency services will be able to check information online or electronically and plan the best and safest routes in advance.’

Everyone involved in the project hopes that the new equipment will take the guess work out of whether or not it is safe to cross and dissuade people from just ‘taking a chance’ and gambling with their safety. Further funding and sponsorship is now being sought for the other installations.