There should be some form of compensation for loss of trade and for the people whose homes are ruined

Grahame Bunn

Many householders cannot get cover for their cherished home and contents because they live in areas which pose too much of a risk.

The Worcestershire town of Upton upon Severn was among the worst hit during the November 2000 floods, prompting a visit from deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.

Defences denied

However the Environment Agency's chairman Sir John Harman has admitted there are about 100 communities for which it is no longer cost effective to protect against floods.

It is believed that Upton upon Severn, which is home to 2,500 residents, is one of the areas which will miss out on flood defences.

Mr Bunn told BBC News Online: "Inside the lowest part of the pub, the water was waist deep.

"We had to replace all the furniture and carpets but it did not affect the structure of the building.

"As soon as the water started receding, we began the clean up process."

But he added: "I can't complain about the river because I came to the pub because of where it is.

Government compensation

"I was aware of the flooding danger and this pub has flooded throughout the centuries.

"But those floods were the worst we had had for a while."

However he says if flood defences cannot be provided because it is not cost effective, then money should be made available by government to aid the clean-up operation afterwards.

Mr Bunn said: "I was closed for one month but during that time, I did not get any business rates relief.

"There should be some form of compensation for loss of trade and for the people whose homes are ruined."