Chloe Smith MP reiterates call for assistance for Norwich’s twin town, Novi Sad, affected by devastating floods in Bosnia and Serbia

Chloe Smith MP, patron of the Norwich & Norfolk Novi Sad Association, today voiced her support for the efforts of the friends of Novi Sad, who are raising funds to help those communities in and around Norwich’s twin town of Novi Sad which have been devastated by recent flooding.

Chloe has contacted the Foreign Secretary to urge the UK government to do what it can to support one of Norwich's twin town areas.

Chloe also recently hosted a visit from Bosnian politicians to observe the Norwich City Council local elections, through her support for the Westminster Foundation For Democracy. She heard firsthand from her visitors how serious the damage to Bosnia and Serbia has been. Nearly 1,000,000 people have been affected by these floods which came very suddenly. About 30,000 people have had to be evacuated from their homes; many houses have been flooded and about 1700 houses completely destroyed by the water and mudslides. There is also a lot of damage to the infrastructure – nearly 30 large bridges and over 200 smaller bridges have been damaged and many remain impassable.

Although Novi Sad itself has escaped damage, much of the relief work is being coordinated from the city and help is being given to towns and villages a little to the south of Novi Sad which have been badly affected by the flooding.

Letters appealing for help from the Mayor of Novi Sad have been received by the Lord Mayor of Norwich and the twinning Association. It has been decided that The Norfolk & Norwich Novi Sad Association should respond to this appeal on behalf of the city and it has offered to act as the collecting point for donations.

The need is urgent at present; many people are homeless and some areas are still under water. Please support this appeal and send donations to:

Mr Jack Brooksbank, 8. Glenalmond, Norwich, NR4 6AG (cheques to be made out to the Norfolk & Norwich Novi Sad Association.)

Chloe comments:

“The recent flooding in Bosnia and Serbia has caused appalling damage. The Novi Sad Association are working tirelessly to respond to the appeal for aid. The British people are often generous in giving to good causes. If you feel able to donate any amount to help these communities, it will be greatly appreciated.”