School pupils report on town floods

This year’s topical Flood Special used interviews related to the Boxing Day disaster in the town and subsequent collapse of the river bridge.

Asking the questions were reporters for the day Freya McCleary, Kore Bennett, Rhianna McVey, Allanah Booth, Sophie Shooter, Joe Burnell, Stephanie Dobbie, Georgina Thompson, Megan Bradley, Sam Walker and William Miller.

Anchor reporters were Kore Bennett and Freya McCleary with Mia Harris and Beth Sims on script, newsletter copy and camera.

Those being interviewed included MP Nigel Adams, speaking about the role he played in contacting the relevant personnel and the Prime Minister to seek their help and intervention following the emergency in the town.

Mel Pratt of Calcaria Carpets gave his account of life for his business following the floods and Mick Shooter, who runs the Community Mini Bus, spoke about helping the community by providing a free shuttle bus service.

Tadcaster Grammar School Headteacher Martyn Sibley talked about the impact the floods had at school.

And Mrs Gillian Hainsworth, Leader of the Big Band was interviewed about the forthcoming concert in the Riley-Smith Hall on March 20 and her involvement helping at Tadcaster Medical Centre after the Boxing Day disaster.

Partnership Development Manager Amanda Crossley organised a Schools’ Community Litter Pick to help clear up all the debris left by the floods and, as well as students from Tadcaster Grammar School, those involved included children from Riverside Primary School and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for children to experience real journalism and we are delighted that once again we were able to be part of the BBC School Report,” said English Teacher James Watson.

To view Tadcaster Grammar School’s BBC School Report visit the School website on www.tgsbec.com