Prince Charles has sent a strong message of support to flood-hit York villagers who are fighting coal mining plans which they fear could sink their homes.

The people of Naburn, which was cut off for ten days during the recent record-breaking floods, fear RJB Mining's plans to extend the Selby Coalfield under the village will cause subsidence and leave their homes at even greater risk of flooding.

The Prince of Wales witnessed first hand the devastating effects of the floods in Naburn when he toured the village last month on his visit to York and Selby.

Naburn Parish Council clerk Jenny Balding prompted the message of support when she wrote to Prince Charles to thank him for his visit but also highlighted people's fears over the mining plan.

In a reply, written on Prince Charles' behalf, his private secretary Stephen Lamport said: "His Royal Highness can very much sympathise with the worries of the people who live in Naburn and will certainly wish to be kept informed of this issue as the debate on the mining proposal continues."

Mr Lamport added that Prince Charles' ability to intervene in the matter was limited.

But he had asked City of York Council's new chief executive David Atkinson for his "urgent comments" on the situation in Naburn.

He added: "The Prince of Wales has asked to pass on to everyone in Naburn his gratitude for the warm welcome he was given during his visit, together with his very best wishes to everyone as they begin to rebuild their lives following the floods."

Mrs Balding said: "When I wrote to Prince Charles I expected to get just a polite acknowledgement, but instead the response we have received is extremely supportive.

"The people of Naburn are determined to fight these plans and Prince Charles' letter has been a real boost to us."

She said that during his visit, the Prince had spent a long time with villagers listening to their concerns, which had helped to bolster the flood-hit community.

A City of York Council spokesman said: "We are obviously very concerned about any plans that could affect Naburn village by the proposed mining by RJB and its subsequent effects on land level.

"Given the recent flooding, we will certainly be asking searching questions of RJB on what their proposals include and how they will impact the village."

RJB Mining has permission to mine the coal dating back 24 years, subject to providing flood defences equivalent to those in place now.

The firm has insisted it will agree flood defence measures with the Environment Agency that will guarantee residents at least the same protection as they have now.

Villagers are currently discussing ways to mount a legal challenge against the mining plan under European human rights legislation.

The parish council is also forming a sub-committee dedicated to their fight, and is calling for volunteers, particularly people with accountancy, civil engineering or administration skills.

tony.tierney@ycp.co.uk