FLOODING at Portishead's Lake Grounds could soon become a thing of the past - thanks to a band of community spirited volunteers. Local residents concerned about flooding at the beauty spot have come forward and offered to open the sluice gate at the lake

FLOODING at Portishead's Lake Grounds could soon become a thing of the past - thanks to a band of community spirited volunteers.Local residents concerned about flooding at the beauty spot have come forward and offered to open the sluice gate at the lake in bad weather.The move comes after the area became badly flooded when the lake overspilled during heavy rain and winds earlier this month.The area around the lake was completely underwater, making it impossible to use, as visitors could not decipher where the water ended and pathways began.Volunteers include former Portishead Chamber of Trade and Commerce chairman Ron Hazelton and Councillor David Pasley.Cllr Pasley said: "It has been agreed with North Somerset Council to organise a team of volunteers who will be on stand-by to open the sluice should staff from the authority not be able to get there during adverse weather."This will stop flooding as we have seen in the past happening again and ensure the Lake Grounds remain open and safe for the public.