SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Prince Charles returning to the island of Muchelney

THE Prince of Wales is to make a return visit to the village of Muchelney next week to see how the community has changed since the last time he was there earlier this year.

The visit on July 8, 2014, is being made to recognise the fortitude shown by this community during the devastating flooding earlier this year and to show appreciation for the support of organisations and individuals who brought aide to local farmers and residents throughout the crisis - bringing in animal feed from across the UK, helping with the removal and return of stock and providing food and building supplies.

This is the second time this year that The Prince of Wales has visited Muchelney. In February, he came to see for himself the impact of the flooding on agriculture and the lives and livelihoods of people on the Levels. The Prince used the emergency boat service – the only means of travelling in and out of the village at the time – to meet people in their own homes as their community became an island.

This occasion will be more upbeat and hopefully in sunshine, with a reception at The Almonry Barns for local residents and businesses. The Prince is keen that the occasion not only recognises the strong community spirit displayed during the time of crisis but also celebrates beauty of the landscape and all that this offers as a wonderful destination for visitors to enjoy.

PHOTO - RIGHT: How Prince Charles arrived in Muchelney in February this year with the Somerset Levels still badly flooded.

Cllr Mike Best, chairman of South Somerset District Council, said: “We are delighted and honoured that Their Royal Highnesses have chosen to return so soon.

“We are proud that they will see the amazing recovery achieved by local people and by the environment.

“And we hope that they will be the first of many visitors who want to discover all this area offers for enjoying unspoilt English countryside, the creativity of local artists and craftspeople, artisan food producers and an array of good quality visitor accommodation.”

Many local businesses and organisations have been able to benefit from the Business Support Scheme, set up by central Government to help with recovery from flooding and build resilience for the future.

South Somerset received the second largest allocation of funding in the country and over 80 grants have already been made with more being processed. The scheme is being administered by South Somerset District Council and remains open for applications. Businesses are eligible if their trade was directly or indirectly affected by flooding.

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