HALTON Council’s emergency planning team has been praised for tackling the trail of destruction caused by Storm Doris.

Cheshire Police declared a major incident as fierce winds struck buildings and trees on Thursday.

Almost 700 calls were received by the borough’s contact centre with 137 pleas for help due to storm damage.

Highways teams managed the closure of 70 roads across Runcorn and Widnes.

A rest centre was opened at Grangeway Community Centre in Runcorn for around 35 residents evacuated after roofs were blown off their homes in Halton Lodge.

People living in The Uplands, Palacefields also had to leave their homes after a tree fell through a window.

Social care staff provided reassurance making sure people felt safe, warm and comfortable, serving food and drinks.

Glendale Children’s Centre supplied clothes and toys for children who had to flee their homes.

Temporary accommodation was provided for families left homeless by the storm.

Some residents opted to stay with relatives.

Council officers liaised with housing associations to sort out alternative accommodation.

Tiles blew off Kingsway House in Widnes and a big tree landed on a house near a field on Dundalk Road.

A big tree fell in Woodridge, Windmill Hill in Runcorn and another blocked South Lane near the railway bridge.

Trees were uprooted around Murdishaw roundabout blocking the Central Expressway.

Open space teams despatched crews to 81 emergency tree clearing jobs.

Many more trees and debris blocked highways and damaged homes.

Crews were praised for working a 13 hour shift to deal with all the urgent jobs.

Halton Cllr Dave Cargill, board member for community safety, said: “Storm Doris did not defeat the efforts of council employees who pulled together, some taking on additional roles to help their colleagues and Halton residents through the crisis.

“Recognition and a massive thanks goes to all involved.

“Officers have done a terrific job of work at this difficult time. I want to register my sincere thanks and appreciate to a job well done by all.”

Building control inspectors visited many buildings and homes that had been severely damaged, giving advice to residents and the police.

Community wardens visited vulnerable residents and the meal delivery service continues as usual.

Halton Council’s emergency planning team took part in a number of multi agency teleconferences throughout Thursday to ensure a co-ordinated effective multi agency response.