'Really worrying' seafront crack opens up after storm

A seafront pub owner says she is "really worried" after a long crack opened up in the ground nearby following storm damage.

Homes and businesses in Torcross, Devon, were badly damaged during Storm Ingrid and long-term resident Gail Stubbs, who runs the Start Bay Inn, said waves were crashing over homes.

Stubbs said the large crack ran "along the seafront, from one end of the village to the other", adding "it's really worrying".

The Environment Agency said it was investigating sea defences that were showing signs of movement, adding: "Once the investigation is completed, we'll decide if further work is required. We will continue to talk with the community with any updated information."

"It's worrying," said Alison Willcock, who lives just off the seafront and said her house was "shaking" during Storm Ingrid.

"The level of the beach has dropped that much the waves are just crashing straight into the sea defences," she added.

She said an existing crack in the defences had opened up further during the recent stormy weather.

She said: "It makes is feel like the sea wall isn't stable and that's what's there to protect us."

The Environment Agency said: "It currently remains feasible to maintain the defences at Torcross. However, continued maintenance will depend on economic justification and relevant permissions."

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