A PUB crippled by severe flooding has re-opened after the community came together to help.

The Ferry Tavern, Station Road, Cuerdley, opened again on Sunday after residents helped with repairs, cleaning and decorating.

Many messages of support were sent on Facebook and Twitter.

Landlord Andrew Mulholland said: “We cannot thank people enough for the support they have given.

“We have always proudly shouted about the fact we are a genuine community pub but we were overwhelmed by the kindness of family, staff, customers, local businesses and people from the community.

“There is a hell of a lot to be said for community spirit – the support that we have had is unbelievable.”

Mr Mulholland, aged 36, has now moved back into the flat above the pub with partner Jade and newborn son Charlie.

The bar is open, but the kitchen is still closed.

As revealed in the Warrington Guardian, the family were forced to leave their home after severe weather on December 5 saw banks of the Mersey burst and flood the pub.

Mr Mulholland criticised Warrington Borough Council after claiming he was refused sandbags when attempting to prevent the flood.

The council said it attempted to get sandbags to the location, but by the time a team arrived decided it was not safe to enter.

He is now hoping business gets back to usual.

“It couldn’t have come at a worse time of year for us, our first child was born on the Sunday and this happened on the Thursday,” said Mr Mulholland.

“There was no damage to the building itself, it was mostly furniture and stock that we lost.

“However, it is coming up to the busiest time of year for us and with insurers not covering us for any loss of business it is critical that we can resume normal business as soon as possible.”