Owners of the popular tourist attraction, Colliers Adventure Farm, were left devastated by the aftermath of Storm Lilian, which caused extensive damage to the family-run farm park. The strong winds, reaching up to 73mph in Wales overnight, wreaked havoc on the site, destroying their marquees that were valued at £7,000. Storm Lilian’s impact was felt across the region, with significant disruption reported ahead of the upcoming bank holiday weekend. Road closures due to fallen trees, flight cancellations, and flood warnings added to the challenges faced by the community.
General Manager Sarah Eifford expressed shock upon discovering the marquee lodged in the trees, despite initial reports suggesting a milder situation. The marquee, essential for hosting various events like children’s parties, was beyond repair, necessitating the purchase of new ones. The farm park, situated in Nelson, Treharris, voiced their struggles, noting the lack of insurance for the mobile structure, resulting in a £7,000 loss. The team remained grateful that no individuals or animals were harmed during the storm.
In a statement to WalesOnline, Colliers Adventure Park outlined the extensive damage caused by Storm Lilian to their events marquees, emphasizing the need for replacement. Despite the setback, the park remained operational, with plans to ensure readiness for upcoming Halloween events in mid-October. The community rallied to support the farm park, with an event initially scheduled in the marquee relocated to accommodate the circumstances.
As the park navigated the aftermath of the storm, visitors were assured that operations continued as usual. The resilience shown by Colliers Adventure Farm in the face of adversity highlighted the community spirit and determination to overcome challenges. The events industry, already strained by external factors, faced additional hurdles due to the impacts of severe weather conditions. With a focus on recovery and preparation for future events, the farm park aimed to rebuild and emerge stronger from the recent setbacks caused by Storm Lilian.