The 2014 Somerset Floods

From December 2013 to March 2014 England was struck by the worst winter weather in 200 years. Somerset was more affected than anywhere else in the Country, especially on and around the Levels and Moors. Volunteer coordinator and photographer Laura Zaky and freelance photographer Jason Bryant witnessed and recorded the rising tide of devastation that swept over the hitherto green fields of Somerset. The lives of thousands were disrupted and for many there was deep distress as livelihoods and homes were submerged beneath the waters. Yet amid all the chaos and anguish Laura and Jason witnessed great acts of kindness, humanity, bravery and humour which showed the strength and resilience of the indigenous population and revealed the generosity of countless people and businesses both locally and from further afield. This book begins when it came apparent that the waters were still rising and people needed help. Laura and Jason have selected over 300 images to present a visual record of the highs and lows of this tumultuous period, starting with the visit of Prince Charles to Muchelney on 4 February, when Somerset's plight became fixed in the Nation's consciousness, through to the end when, finally, the waters began to recede and some sort of normality returned. This book is a unique portrayal not only of the floods themselves but of the tireless behind-the-scenes efforts made to bring aid and succour to embattled communities.