Almost a month to the day since Marlborough suffered the worst floods in living memory, I was delighted to see the spirit of recovery in full swing despite yet another rainy, grey day this week.
Mr Din Mohammed of the Zaika Inn, which has been serving great Indian food to the people of Marlborough for 25 years, faced ruin when his kitchen equipment was destroyed following over a foot of water gushing through the door that fateful Friday. Faced with a plus £20,000 bill for repairs, in the absence of having an insurance policy that covered such flood damage, Mr Mohammed launched a GoFundMe campaign. Now, thanks to the kindness and generosity of the local community, and the superhuman skills of decorator Amelia West, the restaurant is due to reopen just in time for Valentine’s day.
A big thanks also to Jemma Clarke, Commercial Insurance Account Manager for the NFU in Marlborough, who arrived first thing on Saturday morning at Sumbler’s Butchers. Following her assessment, she then spent several hours helping with the clean up operation. Other tales of local builders lending out industrial dehumidifiers and pumps, while nearby residents stored valuable furniture and other treasured items, are all most cheering.
While I am keenly aware many residents and shop owners still face the challenges of clearing commercial waste and all the stress, anxiety and emotions of dealing with insurance claims and rising premiums, I remain impressed with the resilience and good spirits of everyone.
