Archive Films

The film shows the aftermath of the 1952 Lynmouth flood disaster in which 34 people lost their lives. The black and white news film, which has intermittent sound, contains detailed footage of wrecked property.

A local hotel owner, standing on the steps of his ruined hotel, gives a dramatic account of the progress of the flood.

A local fisherman describes how boats were swept away and recounts his desperate struggle to reach his wife and family. He also recalls hearing residents scream as their houses were swept away.

An Army officer speaks of evacuating the town and and rebuilding bridges.