Devastation hits Briton Ferry just days before Christmas! Despite not seeing flooding for 20 years, this Welsh town has been hit hard by a deluge. Homes and businesses are left wrecked, with families finding their living rooms under two feet of water after heavy rains. The Jones family from Hunter Street woke to floodwater pouring through their door, describing their Christmas as “destroyed”. Their living room, once adorned with a train track around the Christmas tree, is now covered with ornaments and toys scattered by the flood.
Neighbour Chris Toma shares his ordeal – water seeped inside up to the staircase by morning. Despite a valiant effort to mop and towel it away, much has gone under the floorboards, turning their holidays into a cleanup mission.
Local businesses haven’t been spared either. Svetlana Lilley’s Wool&Silk Art Studio faced water rushing in from both front and back, despite efforts to barricade it with sandbags. With waterlogged floors and damaged electrics, the road to recovery looks long.
Neath Port Talbot Council has been alert and active, with resources deployed to manage drainage and deliver sandbags. The town is now left to grapple with the aftermath, as relief efforts continue with urgency.
Let’s come together to support Briton Ferry during this challenging time. These images show the heartbreaking impact but also the community spirit fighting to restore normality. Stay safe, everyone!