THE owners of a flooded Nailsworth restaurant have thanked the community its support.

The Olive Tree on George Street was one of the town's businesses left underwater, after thunder, lightning and heavy rain battered the town on Tuesday evening.

Paddy and Sarah Clatworthy, who run the Olive Tree, had been looking forward to reopening their business, when the deluge struck.

Describing the flood as 'devastating' Sarah Martin, treasurer for Nailsworth Chamber of Trade & Commerce said on Tuesday night: "Nailsworth is suffering a devastating flood. A majority of ours shops are under water, causing damage to their buildings and their stock.

"At present they are unsure as to whether they will be able to salvage anything."

Also on Tuesday night, Sarah Clatworthy posted: "Paddy and I are gutted tonight".

But she went on to say that the couple had been inundated by offers of help and support.

"We're completely overwhelmed with the offers of help and support, thank you each and every one of you."

And, true to their word, the community came out in force to help get the restaurant back on its feet.

"Some amazing people came to our help," said Paddy.

"We’re humbled by the support, donations and sheer hard work that was offered to us.

"Rob Clifford, of RC Cleaning Professional, was on site with 20 minutes of flooding and starting pumping and vacuuming all the flood debris. Without him I think we'd still be moping out now!.

"Ian Hooper, of Ian Hooper Landscaping, and who was actually one of the firemen first on the scene of devastation in Nailsworth, utilised all his contacts within his industry and cleared the gravel from the garden and Valley Trading donated 3.5 tonnes and with a small army of local volunteers we had the courtyard back to pre flood.

"Our landlords, Chamberlain Estates, were also knee deep in all the muck, helping us bail out sludge and debris and clear the garden.

"And Matt Beardshall, the owner of Wild Garlic & Wilder, came in straight away and started helping us clear the kitchen, even before he checked on his own restaurant."

Paddy added: "After a busy and productive day down at the restaurant, with many kind volunteers dropping in, we are delighted to say that we are back on track and are still on target to be opening on Monday, July 6."

The Olive Tree will be officially opening back up on Monday, July 6 at 10am and, weather permitting, they will be making the most of their courtyard and patio areas.

Whilst the staff have been furloughed, Paddy and Sarah have been getting the restaurant ready post Covid-19 with hand sanitisers on external doors and throughout, acrylic screening around the bar and restaurant to encourage social distancing in a safe environment.

"Safety of both customers and staff is paramount," said Paddy.

For further details visit: theolivetree-nailsworth.com