A FORMER submariner claims Bradford Council inaction helped put much of Silsden, Addingham and Ilkley underwater during the Boxing Day floods.

Craven ward councillor Jack Rickard called City Hall bosses to account during discussions about the floods at last week’s meeting of Bradford’s full council.

He claimed lack of information and leadership was central to the council’s alleged failings as rushing water from Silsden Beck flooded nearby streets and houses.

He believes the three communities were saved from disaster only by efforts of residents, community leaders and social media, and particularly residents who helped during the Christmas period.

Cllr Rickard said: “As a former submarine officer I know only too well that central to success is strong information flows, and command and control.

“Bradford’s command and control over the flooding period was epitomised by poor information flows out to the community, which meant fear and anxiety was allowed to grow and that the best source of information was found not on a central website but on Facebook and Twitter.

“It was only through effective community leadership that things were able to be managed. The community survived in spite of the council’s efforts.”

As an example, Cllr Rickard cited residents of St John’s Street, next to Silsden Beck, who had spent three years unsuccessfully trying to get drains unblocked, only to see the blockages contribute to flood damage on Boxing Day.