Minehead's Butlins closed because of flooding
Fire crews say received a 'high number' of calls about flooding across Devon and Somerset yesterday - and now the clean-up operation begins
Last updated 18th Sep 2023
Following yesterday's torrential rain across the West Country - the clean-up operation has begun.
On Sunday (17 September), Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service announced there was a 'danger to life', which saw more than a month's worth of rain fall across some parts of the UK, according to the Met Office's weather experts.
Businesses were flooded, Exeter Airport had to shut for some time as videos showed the check-in terminal with water gushing inside - and Minehead's Butlins resort has now had to shut following the devastation.
For holidaymakers hoping for a last-minute getaway, their plans have been scuppered after the Butlins team revealed a number of their venues were underwater following the downpour, including their pool, buffet restaurants, Centre Stage - and some of their accommodation blocks.
It's after what bosses have called 'an exceptional amount of rainfall' in the region.
In a post on social media, Butlins said: "The team have been working hard to clear the affected areas, however, we’re unable to give you the full Butlin’s experience you’d expect from us, therefore we have made the difficult decision to close resort from Monday, 18th – Thursday, 21st September.
"We understand how disappointing this will be for you and your family, we haven’t taken this decision lightly and we are very sorry.
"If your break is impacted, please visit this website for all of your options. This includes a full refund or the option to move to another break of your choice, with an extra £25 off. Please note, that if the cost of your chosen break is cheaper, we’ll refund the difference. If it’s more expensive, you’d pay the difference.
"We anticipate our phone lines will be very busy so please do bear with us. There’s no rush to fill in the form, so please don’t worry. If you choose a refund option, please do not call. This will be processed automatically."
Butlins say their Bognor Regis and Skegness resorts remain open as normal.
A number of flood warnings are still in place across the West Country this morning following the heavy rain - including in Taunton and Dawlish.
Read more: Businesses flooded and a home struck by lightning