St Mary and St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Pocklington, East Yorks, was badly hit when the town’s beck overflowed on Monday 25th June.

The water quickly rose to over four inches deep throughout the building and the pupils had to be evacuated. It was one of four schools in the East Riding of Yorks that was forced to close for the rest of the summer term. Carpets, doors and fitted furniture were damaged beyond repair and a large quantity of books and other resources were also lost. At the time the School resembled a disaster area with no obvious hope of reopening for some time. For the final three weeks of the Term, the Headteacher, Mrs Jenny Firth, arranged for the pupils to work in the local Infants School and Church Hall.

After a great deal of hard work by all the staff, parents, governors and excellent support, both from the Diocese and the Local Authority. 11 weeks later the School reopened its doors in time for the start of the new school year.