31/03/2010 - Charles visits firms hit by floods
Business owners hit by floods in Cumbria have received royal support as they begin rebuilding their firms.
The Prince of Wales was meeting with Cockermouth's businesses and attending regeneration talks after last November's floods ravaged the town.
Some firms have reopened their premises, after insurance providers and Government agencies released funds to help them recover.
The Government committed more than £10.7 million to the recovery process and grants totalling £900,000 have been handed out to 178 businesses.
The central shopping area of Main Street finally only recently opened to traffic as did its main bridges, the Gote and Cocker.
However, only a handful of shops on the street are back to normal and most are still being restored. Several have decamped to Mitchells Auction House, which is home to a temporary shopping arcade.
The Prince spoke of his pride at the resilience and character displayed by the townspeople and emergency services when he toured the region in the wake of the devastating downpours which claimed the life of a policeman.
He also met the widow of Pc Bill Barker, 44, who was swept away in flood waters when a bridge in Workington collapsed as he directed motorists away from danger.
Cockermouth was submerged after more than 12in of rain fall in just 24 hours as more than 200 people needed to be rescued and 1,800 properties were flood-damaged.
Most homeowners are back in their properties but many are living upstairs while their lower floors dry out.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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