Survey of English Dialects recording in Withypool, Somerset

[Side 1] Harry talks about severe flash floods of August 1952, recalls smell of water and debris of stones, trees, household items, upturned cars etc., describes destruction to bridge, stresses impressive response from community as water receded next day, explains how hedges initially held water back creating ponds and lakes before collapsing and releasing surge of floodwater, describes how local garage owner witnessed first torrent that swept bridge away. [Side 2] Harry describes damage to mother's house, tells anecdote about mother rescuing hat from rising water before taking refuge upstairs as water rose to ceiling level and house became cut off, explains how villagers unable to get back to Withypool from Dulverton alerted emergency services, comments police and fire engines unable to get through to Withypool initially, describes clear-up operation incl. salvaging furniture and possessions and removing mud and slurry from mother's home, praises community spirit and local support. Continued from 1LL0014971 S2.