AFTER having to deal with some of the worst floods to hit the region in years, the property manager of Coughton Court has spoken exclusively to the Chronicle.

The National Trust was forced to close the historic home after parts of the house and gardens, near Alcester, were swamped by flood water following torrential downpours in mid-July.

The flood levels reached such a depth so quickly there was no option but to close the property.

Lucy Reid, property manager at Coughton Court, said: "It was a big decision to make as we have to have a very good reason to close, but it was one we had to take. It was quick thinking and fast actions which made sure the damage wasn't as bad as it could have been."

The gardening team put sandbags around the exterior and flood covers were put in place to try and fight against the water. After the rain stopped, carpets were removed and industrial fans brought in.

"We will learn from the flood so that if anything like this should ever happen again, we are ready," added Ms Reid.

"There is still a lot of work to be done and the family gardeners have to repair a lot of damage.

"We would like to thank the National Trust, the Throckmorton staff, all the volunteers and the family for a fantastic team effort and the people who have waited so patiently for us to open again."

An exhibition detailing what happened during the floods is now open and the new event schedule kicks off with a series of Lecture Lunches starting on Friday, October 5 at 11.30am with a National Trust painting conservation advisor.

One of England's pre-eminent novelist-critics, David Lodge, will also be speaking about his Catholic upbringing and how it has affected his work on Thursday, October 4 at 10.30am.

For more details, call Coughton Court on 01789 400777.