HOTELS remained shut and tourist attractions were closed yesterday as residents came to terms with the devastation left behind by floods.

The Whitewater Hotel in Backbarrow and The Swan Hotel in Newby Bridge were closed yesterday after the swollen River Leven burst its banks at the weekend, causing huge damage to both venues.

Guests were evacuated and relocated to other hotels and it is unclear when both establishments will be able to reopen.

Staff at the Whitewater Hotel said they would reassess the situation again tomorrow as the hotel was still without electricity yesterday.

The terraced area of the Whitewater Hotel was submerged under four feet of water at the height of the flood.

People with upcoming bookings are asked to contact the Whitewater’s sister hotel at Branston Hall in Lincoln on 01522 793305, due to problems with the telephone network.

Elsewhere, the Lakes Aquarium closed its doors early on Saturday as lake levels started to rise.

On Sunday, staff posted a picture of the submerged car park and a message saying the attraction was closed.

Fortunately, the main aquarium complex which is home to hundreds of marine life species escaped the flood waters.

But the building, which fronts onto the lake and is used as a cafe and gift shop, was waist high in water at the height of the flood.

The aquarium is run by the Real Live Leisure Company. Director James Eels said: “It is still too early to be able to say how badly the cafe and gift shop have been affected.

“We are waiting to speak to insurers and for loss adjusters.

“We hope to have the aquarium back open by mid-week.”

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