The job done by Devon and Cornwall based military and rescue services in Boscastle last week was nothing short of astounding.
Anyone who saw the pictures of the trapped residents being winched to safety with the waters surging beneath them and in squalling winds cannot fail to have been deeply impressed.
With memories of the 1952 flooding disaster in Lynmouth and Lynton still very vivid in this part of the world, we held our collective breath as the reports from Boscastle talked of a number of people �unaccounted for�.
Witnessing the destroyed buildings and scores of vehicles being picked up like corks by the torrent and thrown unceremoniously into the sea, who could have predicted that everybody would have got to safety in time?
The rescue operation in Boscastle had the advantage of daylight and up to date helicopter technology. The rainfall, though savage, was less intense and of shorter duration than 52 years ago in north Devon.
But there is little doubt that, but for the speed, skill and bravery of the rescue and emergency services, we would be mourning more than just material loss in the picturesque north Cornwall village.
For once, there were not instant media attempts to apportion blame or suggest �something could have been done.�
Although flood defence and alleviation schemes can and do reduce the risk of flooding, they cannot eliminate the risk entirely. Given Boscastle�s topography and the amount of rainfall in such a short period of time, even the most elaborate and expensive flood defences in the world could not have averted last week�s flood.
The local people can console themselves that they coped brilliantly and will not be left alone to clear up and restore their community.
My guess is that more visitors will be attracted to the Westcountry after witnessing the amazing spirit of Boscastle.
