Brits Carry On Boozing And Eating As Pub Floods

There are few things that’ll put off punters from enjoying a bevvie with their mates down the pub, and this was perfectly illustrated by a Cornwall pub over the weekend. 

The Ship Inn situated in the picturesque village of Mevagissey, St. Austell was flooded on Sunday (29 May) after a bout of heavy rain.

But rather than jumping ship, the loyal customers didn’t let a bit of water ruin their meals. 

Photos show diners and staff alike casually going about their usual business despite their feet being submerged in floodwater. 

In one shot a barmaid can be seen chatting to a man while standing in the murky pool, which is nearly at her knees.

BPM Media/Cornwall Live

Another shows diners enjoying their food and drinks despite the chaos going on around them. 

Perhaps the reason for their indifference is because this isn’t the first time The Ship Inn has experienced flooding. 

In fact, the seaside pub was previously dubbed ‘Britain's most flooded’ as it’s fallen victim to the elements on numerous occasions over the years. 

Back in 2012, it flooded 12 times in 12 weeks, leading former landlord Tony Ginn to resign out of frustration. 

Speaking to the BBC at the time, he said: "We've been very unlucky. I can't trade like this. Financially I don't think I could last the winter. The last thing I want to do is lose all my money.

"It's now flooded 12 times. We've had five or six really bad ones. I've had enough.

"It's hard trading in the winter in Cornwall. It's hard to build a reputation for a pub when this is happening so often."

As for the latest incident, Sam Dennis, who’s been working at the pub for eight years, told ITV News: "Luckily the damage is minimal.

BPM Media/Cornwall Live

"It was an extreme flash flood so the customers who were in couldn't get out as it was just as high in the street.

"Lots (of people) were happy to stay and wait for it to subside, my colleague carried others out."

Mevagissey is at risk of flooding as it suffers from both the effects of the spring tide and periods of heavy rain. 

In the past it’s been compared to Venice after high tides and strong winds have left the harbourside village submerged in water. 

Last year the Environment Agency introduced a more stringent flood warning service allowing them to contact residents at risk directly so that they can take action and protect themselves and their property. 

However, it appears in the case of The Ship Inn it is business as usual - come rain or shine (or flood).