David Cameron today travelled to flood-ravaged Cornwall to inspect the damage and talk to devastated locals as the multi-million pound clean-up continued.
The Prime Minister arrived in Mevagissey at about 10am to speak to locals made homeless by the catastrophic floods before travelling to Pentewan, near St Austell, which was also badly affected.
The visit came as the Met Office issued a warning that there is a risk the South West could have up to 40mm of rainfall during yesterday afternoon.
He inspected homes and businesses and spoke to local people whose lives had been turned upside down by the severe weather.
Prince Charles was also due to visit Lostwithial and St Blazey in Cornwall later in the afternoon to offer his help and support.
Mr Cameron’s visit to the area comes as controversy still rages over the coalition’s commitment to spending on flood defences and whether more warning should have been given over possible floods.
Downing Street was recently forced to deny that he had misled Parliament when he said flood protection cash had been safeguarded in the spending review.
The Prime Minister has also alluded to plans to reform how flood defences are paid for as the squeeze on public spending starts to bite.
Downpours began in the early hours of Wednesday and saw more than 100 people evacuated from their homes as floodwaters peaked at 6ft deep.
Helicopters were drafted in from RNAS Culdrose and RMB Chivenor as people had to be ferried to safety.
A huge clean-up is now underway to remove mud and water from streets and homes, some of which were swamped by 3ft of muck.
Residents, firms and council staff are assessing the damage as they remove mud and water from premises and streets.
A spokeswoman for the Prince of Wales said Charles wanted to come to Cornwall to meet flood victims and show his support.
She said: “The Prince of Wales is very passionate about Cornwall, and about its people.
“He wants to lend his support to the local community and all those who have suffered during these dreadful floods.”