#backtobusiness: Flood-hit Ironbridge pub to re-open doors after clean-up

The White Hart was one of many business and homes affected by rising river levels along the town’s Wharfage, with flood barriers erected right outside its premises.

While the barriers weren't breached, the pub's bar areas still saw several inches of water, creating a big clean-up job, and some damage to flooring and furnishings.

Staff at the pub have been working to restore and repair the area, and reopened on Thursday with a lunch and bar service, ahead of a full reopening this weekend.

Alex Nicoll, the pub’s general manager, said: “The last seven days have been very stressful for all. When you see the damage to something you’ve put your heart and soul into, it takes a big emotional toll, as I’m sure other flood-hit businesses understand.

See also:

• Just one flood alert in Shropshire as rivers continue to fall

• #backtobusiness: Free advice on repairing flood-damaged property in Ironbridge

• #backtobusiness: Shadow minister sees impact of devastating floods in the Gorge

• Permanent flood defences needed in Ironbridge, says shadow minister on visit

• Parish councillors object to Ironbridge Power Station site over flooding concerns

“Fortunately, we’ve had lots of help from our wonderful staff and have been inundated with well wishers over the past few weeks, and I can’t thank everyone enough for helping us get through this challenging time.”

Mr Nicoll also runs the nearby riverside Water Rat pub – formerly known as The Meadow Inn – which, despite also suffering flood damage throughout the lower levels, has continued its extensive refurbishment ready for a grand opening on April 2.

He added: “Now that the floods have subsided we are looking forward to life returning to some normality again and completing refurbishment and launch of the old Meadow in its new guise as The Water Rat; we hope this will provide further confidence to all that Ironbridge is once again open for business.”

The Shropshire Star has launched a #backtobusiness campaign to support the community following the floods. We want to use our platform to let people know when your business is back in action after the floods, how people can help, and to tell people about the customers and residents who have gone above and beyond to help.

#backtobusiness - how to take part

• #backtobusiness: The Star is here to help you recover from floods crisis

• Let us know when your business is back in action after the floods

• Let us know how people can help

• Tell us about customers and residents who have gone above and beyond to help

• We'll share the best stories with our readers and help Shropshire get back on its feet

• TWITTER - use the hashtag #backtobusiness to share your stories with us

• FACEBOOK - Visit our Facebook Community Noticeboard to share your stories

You can also share your stories using this form: