Chris Wright, owner of Otterton Mill restaurant and farm shop in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, reports losses exceeding £25,000 from severe flood damage caused by recent storms in south-west England.
Business Devastated by River Overflow
The establishment, located beside the River Otter and a historic working watermill, suffered extensive inundation during Storm Chandra on Monday and Tuesday. Wright describes the past few days as particularly challenging, with the business forced to shut down temporarily after all equipment and stock were ruined by the rising waters.
The restaurant, which closed on Wednesday, resumed operations on Saturday. However, Wright highlights ongoing difficulties, including challenges in securing insurance coverage for the damages. “If we were on a hill, it’d be great, but we’d be a windmill, not a watermill,” he stated. “The floor went under, and we’ve lost a significant amount of equipment. It’s been a tough few days for us. Our running total is pushing £25,000 in losses just from equipment and stock, not counting the closure days.”
Widespread Impacts Across South West England
Storm Chandra’s effects continue to disrupt the region, with five flood warnings active in Devon and two in Cornwall. The Environment Agency indicates that river levels will remain elevated for the foreseeable future.
Transportation networks face ongoing interruptions due to flooding. Rail services between Exeter St David’s and Barnstaple, as well as Exeter St David’s and Okehampton, remain suspended through the weekend, with replacement buses in operation. Trains between Liskeard and Looe, and Par and Newquay, are also canceled until the end of Sunday, causing widespread delays.
A yellow rain warning covers the area from 12:00 GMT on Monday until 09:00 on Tuesday, signaling potential for further heavy downpours and related hazards.
