Flooding Returns To South West

Heavy rain has brought more widespread flooding to the South West.

Latest ITV News reports

Tarr Steps repairs to run into thousands of pounds

Exmoor's Tarr Steps before the damage Credit: ITV WESTCOUNTRY

The cost of repairing the ancient bridge and surrounding pathways at Tarr Steps will run into thousands of pounds.

Somerset County Council and Exmoor National Park say the landmark on Exmoor has been affected by landslips, fallen trees and erosion from recent flooding.

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The country IS getting wetter - it's been confirmed!

The Met Office has said today that the country is getting wetter. Official figures show 2012 was the wettest year in England since records began, and the second wettest in the UK.

That will come as no surprise to many of us here in the South West, particularly those who are still recovering from the latest floods.

Drop-in session for Braunton flood victims

Flood water on the rise in Braunton before Christmas Credit: Ben Birchall/PA Wire

People in Braunton affected by the recent floods can have their say at a drop-in session today [Thursday].

Devon County Council and the Environment Agency have orgainised the event in the town's parish hall from midday until 7pm. On Friday the meeting moves to Bishop Tawton and will be held in the village hall from 3pm to 7pm.

Tarr Steps hit by floods

The ancient bridge as it should look Credit: ITV Westcountry

One of Exmoor's most iconic landmarks has been swept away in the floods. The ancient clapper bridge, Tarr Steps, was demolished when fallen trees pushed up against the giant stones. 3/4 of the bridge has gone and will have to be rebuilt.

The ancient bridge as it is today. More than half has been swept away Credit: ITV Westcountry

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Main rail line into Devon re-opens after flood

Mainline rail services between Exeter and Tiverton have started operating again today, bringing to an end a week of rail chaos for passengers.

The tracks at Cowley Bridge were engulfed by flood water in last weekend's downpour.

Tonight, First Great Western says some branch line services across Devon and Cornwall may not re-open for another week, as Jonathan Gibson reports:

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