Business owner 'so grateful' after 10K raised in appeal after equipment washed into sea

The clean-up continues after Storm Babet, which is still causing disruption

Storm Babet brings huge waves crashing into Teignmouth, Devon, UK. 18 October, 2023.
Author: Andrew KayPublished 19th Oct 2023
Last updated 19th Oct 2023

A Devon business owner says he's lost "everything" in Storm Babet

It's after a shipping container with all of Sean White's water sports equipment was washed into the sea at Torquay's Torre Abbey Sands

The container has been there since 2021, when a business known as 'WeSup' was first opened.

More than £7,000 has so far been raised in an online crowdfunding appeal for Soak Lifestyle, which says: " Sean, Laura (and Honey) pour their heart and soul into their business, which brings so much joy and happiness to people in the bay and beyond."

You can see a post from Sean here

Today the impacts of the storm are still being felt, as you've heard in the travel there's once again no CrossCountry trains from Exeter St Davids to Paignton and Plymouth, with passengers needing to use GWR trains instead. Latest traffic and travel here

There's also a flood warning for the South Devon coast from Start Point to Dawlish Warren.

A spokesperson for Torbay Council said: “We have been working closely with our Harbours team and SWISCo and other partners such as HM Coastguard to respond to any issues caused by Storm Babet.

“We will continue to respond to issues as and when they come in but in the meantime we would urge everyone to stay safe, check on any elderly or vulnerable friends, family or neighbours, avoid driving if you possibly can, and also to report any issues such to us either by calling 01803 701310 or via our website.”

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