The flooding caused by Storm Desmond in 5 December 2015 was a significant event for Kendal and its people. Kendal Oral History Group created an oral record of this devastating episode to see how it affected the people of Kendal through the voices of those involved during and in the months after the event.  Members of the group completed 51 interviews for the project in the months March to September 2016. Those interviewed for the project include people whose homes and businesses were flooded (many still living in temporary accommodation at the time of interview). Also interviewed were local politicians, council staff, volunteers and emergency service staff – all of whom were active on the night of the flood. In addition, staff and volunteers who were involved in running the support centres in the town in the months following the flood were interviewed.

 How to use the Kendal Flood Archive

Start with the Flood Archive Index which is available on this website. This is also on open access in Kendal Local Studies Library

 Next look at the interview summaries which are all available on this website as well as on open access in the Local Studies Library. To view a transcript of a particular interview ask at the Information Desk in the Local Studies Library

 Recordings of the interviews can be heard by prior arrangement – contact the group via the website https://kendaloralhistory.com/

Copyright of the interviews rests with Kendal Oral History Group, Kendal, Cumbria

Any request for a copy of pages from a transcript/ transcripts should be made using the copyright declaration form giving details of intended use KOHG Copyright declaration

Archive-quality copies of all materials have been deposited in the Cumbria Archive Service office in Kendal for posterity.

For more information on the project, the launch and the archive contact us on: kendaloralhistory@gmail.com