Although the clear-up has begun in earnest, 4 days after the horrific floods in Kendal, Cumbria many residents are still in shock.   House Contents on the StreetWater damaged goods are piled on the street for collection Water damaged goods from houses are piled on the pavements waiting to be taken away

Water Damaged ItemsWater damaged furniture is piled on the pavement

St George's Church has a team of volunteers providing hot drinks, soup and a place to chat.

St George's ChurchVolunteers provided hot food and cleaning materials

When I spoke to this gentlemen, he told me had only just come out of his house.  He hadn't felt able to leave before now. The shock had been too much for him.  Thanks to the volunteers he was enjoying his first hot meal in 2 days.  Electricity supply is intermittent and there was no power in the Church when I visited. However the gloomy candlelight seemed to provide the right sombre feel for those lost in their thoughts.  

Two neighbours worrying about what will happen next.

Undeterred by the lack of electricity, the volunteers still provide hot soup.

Team of VolunteersVolunteers at St George's church prepare to hand out hot soup.

Local residents are also doing their bit

A welcome cuppa!

Managing to show a brave face.

For businesses and residents life goes on and a sense of humour still prevails.

This sign was on the window of a flooded business

The river level has dropped significantly.  The environment agency are visible in the community, but I am not sure that is of much comfort to those that were flooded.

If you want to help you can make a donation to a support fund set up by the Cumbria Community Foundation click here for details.  For businesses affected by the flooding there is useful information on how to obtain grant funding and support on the Cumbria Growth Hub page here