This week the EDP is looking back at the campaigns that have made a profound impact on people's lives.

As we celebrate Local Newspaper Week, we also celebrate two of our campaigns that have been nominated for a national award against 35 other campaigns from across the country.

One of these campaigns is the Norfolk and Lowestoft Flood appeal.

On a dark night in December 2013, a tidal surge devastated communities across our coastline, destroying people's homes and causing thousands of pounds of damage.

But in the weeks and months that followed, thousands of people rallied together around those who had seen their homes and businesses shattered.

The EDP with the Norfolk Community Foundation, launched the appeal to help those affected get their lives back on track.

In the weeks and months that followed, an astonishing £330,000 was raised for the appeal.

The appeal wrapped up ten months later in October 2014, and overall the generosity of readers helped fund 312 families in the region.

Of those who benefitted from the appeal were David, 66, and Lorraine Fowler, 55, of Poplar Drive in Walcott.

The results of the tidal surge forced the couple out of their home for four months, during which they ended up staying at Castaways Holiday Park in Bacton.

As part of the flood appeal, the couple received £3,000.

Mr Fowler said: 'The flood came all so sudden. We had about a ten minute warning and then we all went to The Lighthouse Inn in Walcott to stay safe.

'While we were away, the house had about 18 inches of water and everything was destroyed. It was total devastation.

'Our insurance company as well as the builders who helped fix the house and get us to move back in on May 7 was great, but the EDP appeal was a real lifeline during those times of struggle.

'It really helped us with just everyday things like getting food, petrol, new clothes and Wi-fi.

'I am just really grateful to everyone that helped contribute to the appeal as it really helped us during a tough time, just like it did to countless other families that were affected.'

At the end of the appeal £10,000 which was left over, was matched with another £10,000 by the Community Foundation and was the launchpad for Fighting for the Vulnerable - now a standing appeal to help readers in times of crisis.