Storm Bert wreaked havoc at the Cresselly Arms pub in Pontargothi, Carmarthenshire, during the weekend, creating ‘wild’ scenes as floodwaters climbed halfway up the pub windows. The River Cothi burst its banks following heavy rainfall, causing the pub to be waist-deep in water by Sunday lunchtime. This was not the first time the pub had faced flooding, having been hit badly during Storm Callum in 2018. The owner, John Davidson, described the unexpected flooding on Sunday, with water inundating various parts of the pub, reaching waist-deep in the restaurant, four feet in the basement, and ankle-high in the top bar.
Local residents and regulars at the pub rallied to defend against the rising waters on Saturday night, attempting to mitigate the damage. Despite efforts to secure the pub, the water levels continued to rise rapidly on Sunday morning, exacerbated by the swollen river after a relentless downpour across West Wales. John remained optimistic about reopening the pub, anticipating a swift return to business as usual. With tiled flooring and stone walls, the cleanup primarily involved washing away mud and silt. Although some items such as Chesterfield sofas were impacted, the overall restoration process appeared manageable.
The community spirit shone through as volunteers gathered to assist in the cleanup efforts. John acknowledged the support from willing locals, emphasising that the pub would not face extended closure. The sight of debris, including tree branches, strewn outside the pub added to the post-storm scene, requiring clearance by Carmarthenshire Council. Despite challenges, John remained hopeful about the quick turnaround for reopening the pub to patrons, reflecting the resilience and determination of the local community in overcoming adversity.
Speaking of the frantic measures taken as water levels surged, John recalled the collaborative efforts to safeguard the pub, highlighting the quick thinking and resourcefulness displayed during the crisis. The pub’s water pump proved insufficient against the relentless rain, leading to water ingress from various directions. The overall impact of the flooding necessitated a thorough cleanup operation, drawing on the collective strength and cooperation of those involved. Despite the formidable challenges posed by Storm Bert, the community’s unity and proactive approach boded well for the pub’s speedy recovery and reopening.
As Storm Bert subsided and cleanup operations commenced, the pub looked forward to welcoming back customers and resuming operations promptly. Despite facing recurrent flooding incidents in the past, the resolve and solidarity exhibited by locals and volunteers underscored the unwavering spirit of community support and resilience in overcoming adversity. The remarkable response to the crisis reflected a shared commitment to restoring the pub to its former glory, highlighting the indomitable spirit and collaborative ethos prevalent in Pontargothi. Amidst the challenges posed by nature’s fury, the enduring bonds within the community emerged stronger, paving the way for recovery and renewal in the aftermath of Storm Bert’s fierce onslaught.