was over waist deep and the current was just colossal.” She emphasized the urgency of the situation: “We were having to pin each other down into the water to try to stop ourselves from getting taken off by the current.”
Resilience at The Bridge Inn
The Bridge Inn in Michaelchurch Ecclesley managed to reopen after being surrounded by floodwater. Mark Benthan, the landlord, recounted: “Twelve hours ago the situation was dire; we had water coming through the walls, it’s the sort you only see once in living memory.” Despite initial fears of severe damage, a monumental rally round from community members allowed the inn to reopen on Saturday afternoon.
Transport Disruptions and Canceled Parkruns
The storm caused significant disruptions across the region, with Parkruns and other events cancelled. In Beacon Parkrun in Lichfield, the course was flooded, forcing organizers to cancel the event early. Similarly, Cannock Chase Parkrun faced a similar fate due to fallen trees blocking the route.
Commuters also experienced challenges, with buses and trains affected by waterlogged roads and railway lines.
Transport for Wales issued warnings about station closures and advised passengers not to attempt travel between Shrewsbury and Newport as it could result in unreliable journeys. West Midlands Railway warned of ongoing disruptions throughout the region, urging people to seek alternative forms of transport.
Community Spirit and Recovery Efforts
The resilience displayed by communities like Ewyas Harold and The Bridge Inn highlights the strength of local support networks during times of crisis. As flood warnings remained in place across Herefordshire, residents continued their cleanup efforts with determination. Dave Throup, a retired Environment Agency manager, noted that areas such as Tenbury Wells had “dodged a bullet,” attributing it to a mere 20-mile difference in the rain band’s orientation.
The severe weather conditions underscore the importance of community preparedness and response mechanisms. As Storm Claudia continues to impact the region, ongoing efforts from local volunteers and emergency services will be crucial in ensuring recovery and rebuilding.
