We decided to go via Cockermouth as we wondered how one of our favourite cafes was getting on with recovery now the floods have subsided.
Sadly the shop was deserted and empty and at the moment no signs of work being done on it. I think that many places maybe didn't have full insurance after previous floods so that could be one reason? Cockermouth was a hive of activity, builders wagons everywhere and skips all down the main street. Lots of work being done to repair the damage but I'd suspect it will be many months before the main street is back to some kind of normality.
Looking at these pictures over the main bridge in the town it is hard to believe the vast amounts of water that poured down the streets.
It all looks so innocent doesn't it?
Lots of shops have opened temporary premises in the old job centre, most of the banks have portacabins in the supermarket car parks. One of the most poignant sights for me as a yarn artist during the media coverage was the sight of balls of wool and knitted garments floating down the street. This wool shop is only a few yards away from the bridge and is still boarded up. There was a sign on the door with a phone number for enquiries. I don't think the lady has a web site as many people on Ravelry wanted to order online to help support the business.
It was very moving to see pictures the local schools had done pinned to all the devastated buildings.
I didn't take any more pictures , these were enough to remind me of the power of Nature, not always pretty and kind.As Solstice approaches fast I am heartened by the positive energy that the people in Cumbria are showing despite being so badly affected by this tragedy.
If you were thinking of visiting and shopping there please do, they need all the support we can give, especially financially by spending in the shops, hotels and other businesses.
The Wool Clip in Priests Mill is a cooperative of Cumbrian people, they use Cumbrian sheep fleeces to create yarn, wearable items and more. Despite the floods they are still open for business.
Don't stay away.
4 comments:
Even in today's society, people still pull together when disaster strikes. It's good to see.
I wish I lived close enough to go there and offer some kind of help. Is there any kind of relief fund available to contribute to? I would have cried to see needles or yarn floating away.
I remember when it happened in Towyn in North Wales and we were living in St Asaph then. Everyone pulled together then too.
Dear Mrs. Moggs,
With the soltice comes light, and with light come hope. Recovery will come. I live in Detroit and hope every day. It's not easy, but I still try. I enjoy reading your blog. Thank you. Your Femmes are great!
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