Just months after investing £250,000 in their dream project, Martin and Andrea Sholl’s newly renovated bar in Monmouth is now a flood-ravaged shell. Twelve weeks into running Bar 125, their hopes were dashed when Storm Claudia brought unprecedented flooding to the quaint town. The couple is in a financial bind, with insurance refusing to cover the massive damage and £10,700 worth of provisions lost.
They are not alone in their struggle. Nearby businesses, such as Rachael Davis’s Pause & Paws snack shop, face similar devastation. Rachael opened her shop to provide easier work due to her husband’s health issues, but flood waters took away everything, leaving them uninsured and considering fundraising for recovery.
Simon Moore at Well Pharmacy describes the disaster as a nightmare, with thousands of items destroyed and the community pharmacy now operating from a temporary unit. Meanwhile, Chris and Claire Lawson’s Handyman House estimates losses touching £1 million. Flood barriers couldn’t stop the river’s rise, contaminating merchandise and challenging the family-run business established decades ago with clearing and insurance chaos in their wake.
Despite the destruction, Monmouth locals are resilient. With some businesses managing to reopen partially, the town is aiming to bounce back. The Welsh Government and local council are stepping in with grants and tax relief, offering a glimmer of hope for those hardest hit. It’s a race against time to salvage what remains and begin rebuilding lives and livelihoods.
As the community watches the skies anxiously, the spirit of Monmouth remains unbroken. Residents and business owners alike are determined to restore their town to its former charm and vitality. It’s going to be a challenging road ahead, but they are ready to face it together. Keep them in your thoughts and let’s hope for brighter days!