The Wheel Inn, 14th century thatched inn at Tresillian, Truro, was saved from a much worse fate when flooding hit just two days before Christmas.

On the night of Monday, December 23, barman Andrew suddenly realised that water was pouring down towards them from the road, where a drain had overflowed.

He quickly closed the pub, fetched sluice boards and sand bags and did his best to stem the flow, reducing the water to an unpleasant three or four inches.

Better than it would have been without his quick thinking.

The water flooded through the front door, into the bar and two dining areas and the kitchen, leaving carpets absolutely drenched.

Some customers stayed to help where they could, but the flood water was a nasty surprise for licensees Alison and Simon Bellamy, who were out that night.

After returning at 11pm, a decision was made to not open the pub the next day.

However with dehumidifiers borrowed from a helpful builder, carpets were set to dry and by Christmas Day they were open again, a little soggy, but ready for business.