A MAJOR clean-up operation will be carried out at Radcliffe Market after the basement was flooded.

Water has filled the lower level of the cellar, with debris and rubbish left floating on the surface of the water.

The community interest company behind the running of the market has called on volunteers to help with the clean up.

The basement was also flooded in March last year, following torrential rain.

Katie Davies, managing director of food stall Northern Glory, said: "We are saddened that the floods in the area have flooded our basement.

"We had a vision of turning the basement into studios and using the space effectively, however this looks very unlikely now.

"We are asking the community to come together, like we always have done, to try and save what we can and clean the basement up."

Free hot food and drinks will be available for volunteers, and any profits after repairs are carried out, will go towards the market.

Helpers are advised to wear suitable footwear such as boots or wellingtons, as well as warm clothing and rubber gloves.

A post on the Radcliffe Market Facebook page reads: "A request for your help.

"Due to heavy rain overnight the basement at Radcliffe Market Hall has flooded and further rainfall is expected throughout the week.

"We could really use some volunteer support for the following:

• Help to tidy the basement and clear rubbish

• People with trailers who don’t mind taking stuff to the tip (Tuesday morning)

• A bricklayer (would be the icing on the cake)

"If you (and your friends) are available we will be there from 5pm on Monday, February 10. If you can’t make 5pm anytime after that would be appreciated. Please wear strong shoes/boots and warm clothes. Brews and biscuits will be available.

"Thanks to this who helped today and thanks in advance for tomorrow, we really appreciate it."

Volunteers will be in attendance from about 4.30pm tonight.