Emma Macalister Hall
“We are braced for Storm Darragh to do its worst” – me, last week, before all hell broke loose in East Kintyre.
We have been relatively lucky with recent named storms, escaping with just a few branches down here and there and no major disruption. That all changed with Darragh last Friday night as, what was described as a 200 year event, hit Torrisdale, Saddell and parts of Carradale with a vengeance.
On the estate, three bridges were washed away completely, effectively cutting off our poor neighbours up the glen. Another suffered serious damage when a tree crashed through it. There was extensive flooding at the Arch House which several of us attempted to deal with by bailing out the water as fast as it was coming in. We quickly realised we were fighting a losing battle and called the fire brigade. Even with two appliances pumping the drains, the water didn’t recede for several hours. Niall was almost hypothermic when he eventually came home at 5am having spent most of the night up to his armpits in a drain.
We inspected the damage at first light and discovered the bridges but quickly ascertained that all the neighbours were ok and could at least get out on foot through a field. Miraculously the hydro scheme survived and a nearby bridge remained completely intact.
A bigger miracle was the castle roof – just a few minor drips!
Damage further afield has been extensive and devastating. Two of our farmer friends lost flocks of sheep which is absolutely soul destroying and not something that can be insured against. At least bridges can be repaired.
As the flood waters receded, further issues were revealed with Saddell bridge on the main road to Campbeltown. The bridge foundations were badly compromised by the sheer volume of water resulting in immediate closure to traffic. Obviously this is the only route to Campbeltown and affects hundreds of people in east Kintyre. Foot traffic is allowed so at least the kids can get to school and back on the bus but it’s a long drive around to get the shopping!
As usual this wonderful community is rallying and making sure everyone has what they need, offering lifts to and from the bridge, ferrying things across when necessary – bread, medication, workmen! Our dogs even had a quick check-up by our vet in the temporary car park on our side!
No doubt the novelty of all will soon wear off but hopefully it will re-open shortly and we can all get back to normal**.
*Bonus points if you know the next line…..
**which is highly subjective around here!
