A Wexford hotel has managed to raise over €7,000 for a volunteer river rescue team that was instrumental in rescuing residents from their flooded houses earlier this year.

In late January of this year Slaney River Rescue crew, and their equipment, played a vital role in ensuring residents’ safety in Enniscorthy when the river banks broke and water quickly filled businesses and homes following Storm Chandra.

The crew spent hours in the water transporting people to safety with their boats, which included a baby as young as a few weeks old.

In recognising their role in the community, the management of the Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Centre selected them as their charity partner, raising €7,123 during a kayaking event held on the River Slaney.

Speaking about the fundraiser, a representative from the hotel highlighted the dedication of the rescue team.

“This amazing organisation does exceptional work throughout the year and provided invaluable assistance to so many people earlier this year. We are proud to support such a worthy cause,” they said.

“Led by our general manager Barry and organised by our fantastic charity committee in collaboration with Go Paddle, teams took to the water for a thrilling kayak race. And when we say the competition was fierce, that is putting it mildly!”

They also extended their thanks to Go Paddle and all the businesses and individuals who generously sponsored prizes and contributed to fundraising efforts.

After the race, participants and their families enjoyed a well-earned barbecue.

Chairman of Slaney Search and Rescue, Shane O’Connor explained they were grateful for the support they have received from the hotel, as well as other organisations and businesses over the last number of months.

“For us, support like this means so much. Our volunteers are there when people need us most, often in difficult and distressing circumstances. Every contribution helps us maintain our equipment, train our volunteers, and remain ready to respond when that call comes,” he said.

“The Riverside Park Hotel has been part of the Enniscorthy community since opening its doors in 1998 while Slaney Search and Rescue has been serving the community since 1995. Over the years, both organisations have become an important part of the fabric of this town and the River Slaney that connects us,” he added.

“We are incredibly grateful to Barry, the charity committee and everyone at the Riverside Park Hotel for their generosity and for the tremendous effort that went into Monday’s event.”