THE plight of villagers and holidaymakers caught up in one of the worst floods of recent times has inspired a Trowbridge shopkeeper to start an aid collection.

Ann Mason, manager of HB Pitt at Silver Street, went on holiday to the stricken village of Boscastle last year and wanted to do something to help.

She and her colleagues have put collection boxes in the shop for people to put in donations, which will go towards helping those who have lost their homes and belongings.

Mrs Mason said: "Lots of people locally have popped in and put some coins in the box. It has been so well received.

"I am sure everyone is thinking about the residents, businesses and holiday-makers there who have lost everything."

Buildings and cars were washed into the sea on Monday as a flash flood led to a 10ft wall of water sweeping through the village.

About 150 people had to be airlifted to safety after heavy storms caused 6cms of rain, the average for the whole month of August, to fall in the area in just two hours.

The deluge caused two nearby rivers to burst their banks, sending the torrent of water down the main street. Six buildings collapsed due to the force of water.