RAF Chinook Deployed To Fight Floods In Yorkshire

The RAF Chinook carrying aggregate during one of the shuttles (Picture: @RAF_Odiham/ Twitter).

An RAF Chinook crew has helped to bolster flood defences in the Bentley area of Doncaster, dropping more than 40 tonnes of materials into part of the River Don following days of persistent rain. 

British Army Royal Engineers were on the site yesterday and soon highlighted the need for a support helicopter to prevent damage to hundreds of homes.

Soon after, an RAF Chinook was sent to plug any gaps and bolster drainage efforts.

RAF liaison officer, Wing Commander Gary Lane, told Forces News yesterday that a pumping facility had been completely surrounded by water after days of harsh conditions.

A Chinook was launched from 18 Squadron, RAF Odiham, to supply sand and building materials to the spot. 

Crew from the Joint Helicopter Support squadron at RAF Benson lifted aggregate from a local quarry to flood banks through to the early hours of the morning. 

The military intervention first came at the request of the Environment Agency, and included efforts to support around 300 homes. 

Shortly before 1am this morning, RAF Odiham took to social media to say the job had been completed.

"Tonight's work is complete, 40 tonnes of aggregate moved in 10 shuttles, with a short refuel," the tweet read.

"Excellent effort by all!"

Five severe flood warnings, meaning there is a threat to life, remain in place across South Yorkshire.

There are warnings of poor weather conditions until midweek.