STAFF at a popular Ledbury pub have dug a trench to prevent future flooding - but it hasn't stopped a nightmare caused by Storm Bert.

The landlord of the Oak Inn Staplow pub, Chris Howell, told the Reporter the disruption and cancellations caused by the flooding would have cost them thousands of pounds. 

And, having previously had his kitchen flooded and certain flooding will hamper him in the future, he has pleaded that, if a solution is possible, something is done to address it. 

Mr Howell said he put elderly guests and members of staff up for the night to prevent them making the 'scary' journey home when the weather was at its worst. 

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Ledbury has been hit with flooding as Storm Bert gripped the town, with roads, properties and farmland impacted by the washout. 

On Sunday, the B41214 Staplow was closed due to flooding causing massive disruption, and impacting businesses including the Oak Inn. 

Mr Howell said his pub was fully booked for Sunday lunch, but, by 1pm, when they are normally at their busiest, only half a dozen people had turned up. 

"We lost 40 customers in total between midday and 3pm which is about £20 a head, so that is around £800 just for lunch. 

"We also lost people in the evening, so in total, we must have lost thousands of pounds. 

"We have had our kitchen flooded in the past and we have done our bit, digging a trench at the back of the pub to ensure we aren't flooded in the future. 

"I don't blame anyone for this, it is just nature taking its course, but this has happened before and it will happen again so if there is anyway something can be done to help it would be really appreciated."

A flood alert remains on the Gov.UK website which is expected to impact low-lying land and roads adjacent to the River Leadon. 

Impacted locations include Ledbury, Much Marcle, Staunton and Tibberton, with further rainfall expected over the next day. 

On Saturday, Ledbury Town Council issued a statement revealing its Christmas market, due to take place during the following day's festive lights switch-on event, had been cancelled due to Storm Bert. 

However, the lights switch on was still held at the Ledbury Market House along with limited entertainment. 

The road near the Much Marcle garage was flooded by Sunday afternoon (November 24). 

Ledbury's MP, Dr Ellie Chowns, said she was very concerned by the floods and urged anyone impacted by the floods to contact Herefordshire Council for support.