Huge clean-up operation under way after flooding

A clean-up operation is under way after heavy storms and flash flooding caused widespread disruption across Devon.

Witnesses in the region reported "torrential" rain and damage in villages, including Tipton St John and Newton Poppleford.

Several flood warnings and flood alerts remain in place across the country, including one for the River Clyst.

A major incident as been declared in response to flooding in parts of Somerset.

The village of Tipton St John was among the worst-hit areas in Devon.

Primary school pupil Hattie, who was rescued from Tipton St John Primary School on a tractor, said the experience was "a bit scary but also a bit of an adventure".

Teacher Naomi Garrick was lifted out on the back of a firefighter.

Head of school Pete Button said the children were kept safe until they could be moved, but "the speed of it was the staggering thing".

Meanwhile, Michelle Teissier, landlady of the Golden Lion in Tipton St John, said she felt "shell-shocked".

Ms Teissier, who has lived in the village near Sidmouth for 20 years, added: "We did manage to do a huge amount yesterday and the staff all stayed on to help.

"We cleared up silt in the building and in the yard and today it's mopping, clearing debris and putting everything back again."

She said staff were also working to dehumidify carpets but had yet to clear the terrace and car park.

She added: "We're a bit shell-shocked. We've had to close and we are just wondering when we can get back open - it's a bit surreal.

"We've had little floods before but I've never seen it come down the main road like that."

Christopher Burhop, district councillor for Newton Poppleford, said a mass village clean-up was organised.

He added that, as well as volunteers, they had been also looking for help from "structural surveyors and builders who can give some input".

He said: "I've already fielded calls from desperate residents, some of whom have houses which are badly damaged.

"We are trying to give whatever help we can."

He added: "This is the first time in 30 years I've seen this particular type of flooding."

Mr Burhop said they had had close to 70mm (2.6in) of rain in a "couple of hours", which had caused Back Brook, which runs though the village, to flood.

Hilary Penfold, from Newton Poppleford, compared the flooding on Tuesday to a "big tidal wave".

She was surveying the damage on Wednesday morning, which she said included the demolition of a concrete wall and brick outbuilding.

Ms Penfold said they had just finished renovating the garden, kitchen and door when the flash flooding hit, with water pressure causing the new door frame to buckle.

She said: "I just can't believe this has happened because we're not even by a river, that's kind of what shocked me."

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received numerous calls, while Devon County Council's highways bosses added there were problems in Exeter "due to flooding and stuck vehicles".

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