A NEW pumping station near Prickwillow will greatly relieve flooding and improve drainage in the fens around it. The official opening of Isleham Fen s new Overfall pumping station took place on May 8. Two modern electric units have been added to the stati

A NEW pumping station near Prickwillow will greatly relieve flooding and improve drainage in the fens around it.

The official opening of Isleham Fen's new Overfall pumping station took place on May 8. Two modern electric units have been added to the station's drainage arsenal, at a cost of more than £700,000.

Middle Fen and Mere Internal Drainage Board won a £33,000 DEFRA grant for the much needed facility. Drainage experts took two months to complete the work.

The Overfall pumping station dates back to the time of windmills, and has played a vital role in draining the area between Ely, Soham and Isleham.

A diesel-driven pump replaced the windmill in 1919, and many upgrades were made throughout the 20th century.

Anthony Morbey, chairman of the drainage board, said: "It's vitally important that we maintain and invest in the pumping capacity to prevent flooding and ensure that people, land and property are protected.