A farmer from North Wales and his family are overcoming a traumatic event after experiencing a frightening landslide that significantly impacted their home. The family decided to halt the fundraising campaign aimed at helping them recover from the disaster, feeling that there were others in greater need of support. The landslide, triggered by Storm Bert, caused chaos on their farm in Llanarmon DC, Wrexham county, forcing the evacuation of five adults and six children to safety.
The farming family, comprising Emyr Owens, his son Endaf, and their respective families, had to be rescued by tractors and are currently accommodated in a nearby B&B. Local farmers and contractors have been working tirelessly to clear the debris and sludge left by the landslide, with the daunting prospect of months before the family can return to the land they’ve tended for more than 40 years. The impact was severe, with farm equipment destroyed by the force of the landslide and even a young girl narrowly escaping harm when a tree pierced a farmhouse wall.
Councillor Trevor Bates, representing Dyffryn Ceiriog, spearheaded an online fundraising initiative after witnessing the devastation and receiving requests from concerned individuals wanting to donate. Despite initial hesitation, Emyr Owens eventually agreed, especially with the idea of providing the children some relief during the upcoming Christmas season. The fundraiser exceeded expectations, gathering £4,000 within 12 hours before Emyr felt compelled to ask for it to be stopped, understandably overwhelmed by the response.
Aside from financial aid, the community has rallied around the family, offering books, toys, and even memorable experiences like rides on heritage trains courtesy of Llangollen Railway. The outpouring of support has left the family and Cllr Bates touched by the generosity and solidarity shown in the face of adversity, underscoring the strong community spirit in the area. The landslide, which occurred as a local river burst its banks, caused significant damage to the Owens’ property, with the kitchen submerged in sludge, but thankfully, all family members emerged unscathed.
The scene of the devastation, as described by Cllr Bates, painted a grim picture of toys scattered across the yard and trees pressed against the property. Despite the harrowing experience, including the farmhouse being penetrated by debris, the children managed to return to school come Monday. As offers of assistance continue to pour in, Cllr Bates is diligently managing the support network, allowing the family the space and resources needed to rebuild their lives. The resilience and unity displayed in response to this natural disaster serve as a testament to the strength of the community and the unwavering support present in times of crisis.