David Cameron has praised the efforts of retailers who are helping communities cope with the flooding crisis.

The PM said the intervention from companies including Asda, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose were examples of  “the whole country pulling together”.

“I welcome the support they are offering and the role they are playing in helping to get parts of the country back on their feet,” he added.

Activity by supermarkets has included:

Tesco has established a free helpline number for farmers who need assistance from the retailer’s delivery fleet, and has already transported hundreds of bales of hay to farms in the South West to feed animals relocated because of farm flooding.

Asda has set up a £400,000 flood relief fund to assist residents.

Sainsbury’s has provided emergency funds to stores in areas that have been severely affected, and these are distributing goods such as batteries, clothing and food.

Waitrose branches have donated food parcels in areas where people have been evacuated or stranded.

Morrisons is using its distribution vehicles to collect livestock in distress and is also responding to requests to help move hay and silage.

Marks & Spencer is providing food provisions to relief workers and those living in affected areas.

“Dealing with these floods will be a long haul, and it will require a stepped-up national effort with the whole country pulling together,” said Cameron. “The government is taking action across the board to deal with the clear-up, and we have been working with businesses to see what they can do to help those people affected.

The Grocer is producing rolling coverage of the efforts being made by the industry to help those affected by the floods.

If you have examples contact ian.quinn@thegrocer.co.uk.