A popular Isle of Wight attraction was forced to close due to flash flooding.
Mottistone Gardens, a National Trust attraction, closed after heavy rain caused damage, undoing ‘months’ of work.
National Trust Isle of Wight said: “At 10.15am today (Thursday, August 28), just 15 minutes before opening, the heavens opened above Mottistone.
“Ten minutes of fierce, unforgiving rain and the garden was unrecognisable.
“In those few minutes, paths were gouged out, plants ripped from their beds, and carefully nurtured borders washed away. The work of months undone in moments.”
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The organisation said it was the third time this year the gardens suffered flash flooding.
A spokeperson said: “Walking through afterwards was devastating to see such a special, peaceful place scarred so quickly.
“Our valley setting creates a unique microclimate, but it also leaves us acutely vulnerable to sudden extremes of weather.”
The head gardener and the team are working to restore the grounds following the devastation.
The charity raised questions about climate change, and its impact.
National Trust Isle of Wight said: “This is what climate change looks like – not a distant threat, but a harsh reality that is already reshaping the places we love.
“The truth is stark: if ten minutes of rain can cause this level of destruction, what will the years ahead bring?”
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