Hi, my name is Tadhg 

Most of you will know I'm a volunteer with Northants 4x4 Response (Part of the 4x4 Response UK network). We are a group of 4x4 owners who donate the use of our vehicles, driving skills and our time, during times of need. As a charity our role has predominantly been assisting the Emergency services and transporting essential medical staff, to and from work in bad weather, normally snow and ice.

Over the last few years, possibly as a result of global warming, our role has started to include flooding, which has seen us working alongside the Maritime Volunteer Service moving their boats. In the run up to Christmas 2020, we were called out to evacuate the residence of a mobile home park, some 1600 homes in total that were badly flooded. This task has added new dangers to our role as responders.

Having just just completed both DEFRA 1 and 2 Water and Flood Awareness Training with the intention of being able to launch boats and undertake other waterside tasks if required, I find myself having to raise funds for suitable personal protection equipment, to allow me to complete my role as part of the team. 

The team has been quoted approximately £1000 to buy the essential equipment for each water responder, I would be grateful for any donations given. Although we are based in Northampton, we could be sent anywhere in the UK.

Although this will be my personal equipment, if I were to leave the team I would pass it on for the use of any other member. If I receive more donations than I need, I will put the funds towards the team’s equipment fund. If not needed by the water team, then it will be donated to Northants 4x4 Response.

Thankyou for your time, 

Tadhg