A RIVERSIDE pub was almost devastated by a “freak storm” which caused eight-inch deep pools this week.

Staff, cyclists and customers rallied around The Anchor Inn, in Tintern, as flood water reached the venue and began to trickle under the doors on Wednesday.

A Chepstow fire crew being was called, and sandbags and a specialised floodgate saved the venue from damage, with the business continuing through the night.

The pub's general manager, Rob Parkin, said: "Since the last time the flooding happened we have been prepared with flood gates and pumps but this time it was basically a river coming down.

“The water was coming up over the top of the culvert which proceeded to come down with lots of debris.

“It was a freak storm and it happened in a matter of three to four minutes.”

Mr Parkin added: “It was literally just a flash flood. Ten minutes later the water was gone and it was a cause of clearing up. 

“The river is easy to manage because you have got high tide warnings and we have got premises and staff on site but this was out of the blue. 

“Monmouthshire council have been really good."

Monmouthshire council’s county highways operations manager Steve Lane said: “On Wednesday Monmouthshire experienced a quick moving, torrential storm. 

"The storm was short lived but created flash flooding in parts of central Monmouthshire, including Tintern, Llangwm, and toward Abergavenny. 

“Monmouthshire [council’s] operations department responded to many calls from the police and public that included incidents of a land slip, damaged stone road bridge, road flooding and requests for sandbags. 

"Reports of debris and water on the roads after rivers burst their banks and surface water made its way to watercourses. MCC crews were placed on call specifically to respond to weather warnings being issued, by the Met Office.

Over the last few days our crews have continued to provide a dedicated response."

In events of severe weather residents are advised to call the council on 01633 644644 during office hours, or 0300 123 1055 to report emergencies out of office hours.