FLOOD-HIT villagers are pulling out all the stops with a series of events aimed at boosting funding for new flood defences.

The Kempsey Flood Action Group (FLAG) is stepping up its campaign to raise awareness and cash for a new bund which would prevent a repeat of 2007’s devastating floods.

The group has so far raised £1,400 through community events and member subscriptions but villagers are wanted to make a symbolic gesture of support for the defences ahead of the key bund bid meeting in September.

Top of the billing is a live music event featuring five talented local bands dubbed Bund Aid which kicks off at 6pm on Saturday, June 20 at Kempsey Primary School, Ellsdon, Kempsey. Tickets cost £5 or £8.50 including food.

Preceding that event, villagers are being urged to get family and friends along to the Kempsey Pub Walk on Saturday, May 30.

The walk starts at the Crown Inn, in Main Road, at 2pm before finishing at the Walter de Cantelupe at 6.30pm.

Tickets cost £5 and £2 for children, with extra for food. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

For more details call Daryl Jones on 07899 062263 before Tuesday, May 26.

Those events are followed by the Kempsey Garden Walkabout and Treasure Hunt on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12.

Then on Sunday, July 19, fishing fanatics can go along to the Kempsey Angling Association open fishing match.