An community emergency plan is coming together with the hard work of the deputy Mayor of Sandwich, Cllr Pip Russell.

Cllr Russell has been working with Poulders Road resident Steven Sheppard, a former police officer to devise a comprehensive plan which residents can follow in case of an emergency.

This includes having a dedicated emergency phone, an emergency kit to be kept at the Guildhall, and a control centre which residents can contact for advice or assistance.

Cllr Russell said: “Since it is unlikely that in the future we will have the sort of flood in our town that we experienced in December we feel and KCC feel that we could use the Guildhall as our primary care centre and control centre.”

This will mean that should residents need a safe place to go in the event of a flood, chemical spillage, terrorist attack or pandemic - they can go to the Guildhall.

The plan comes after last year’s tidal surge highlighted certain areas that need to be addressed. In particular those who are vulnerable need to be identified so that they can me made a priority.

With this in mind Cllr Russell and Mr Sheppard will be visiting care homes, doctors surgeries and youth centres to ensure they have their co-operation.

She explained a list of contact numbers will be sent to residents in Sandwich with the message: “Neighbours, could you please make yourselves aware of anyone in your vicinity who may need your help in an emergency and use the appropriate contact number to get help for them. We are sure that you would also do all you can yourselves to help the,.”

Those who are disabled, need vital drugs or have special electrically powered equipment are especially urged to keep this sheet in their homes and also identify themselves as needing help in an emergency.

This was discussed at a Sandwich Town Council meeting, with members of the council debating the best way to identify vulnerable people without breaching privacy.

It was decided that as well as having good communication with doctors and care homes, the plan could rely on the community spirit of residents to keep an eye on one another.

The contact sheets will be distributed to homes once the plan is complete.