Mike McCarthy, the last of the original members of SAFAG, will shortly be moving out of the area and giving up his position of team leader.

Over the years, Mike has steadfastly supported SAFAG’s local flood mitigation efforts, by arranging meetings, attending presentations, liaising with landowners, farmers, contractors and various agencies, to walking the fields and pathways leading the group members to inspect the condition of over 850 interventions (leaky woody dams, ponds, wetlands, bunds, and scrapes) installed upstream of Shipston.

Mike’s experience and knowledge isn’t readily replaceable. Fortunately, during the current interim transitional period, Mike will be helping to shape and plan the future role and objectives of SAFAG covering the next couple of years.

The SAFAG team’s efforts to ‘slow the flow,’ has helped to reduce the risk and impact of localised flooding, which has historically affected Shipston and the local communities bordering the Stour.

Mike’s efforts deserve recognition, and the thanks of all local residents who have benefited from his commitment and enthusiasm.

Further information about SAFAG’s achievements can be found on the website - www.safag.org