STAFF at a holiday park in Burton Bradstock which was battered by Storm Ciarán have paid tribute to the emergency services who rushed to their aid.
They have said they're 'feeling positive' about the site's recovery, despite being forced to close for the season earlier than expected due to storm damage.
Freshwater Beach Holiday Park was hit by high winds and huge waves last Thursday.
Storm Ciarán left caravans at the park dragged from footings and triggered an evacuation of the park.
Local residents who rallied round to help stranded park guests by taking them in have received a special thank you.
A large emergency presence was called to the site including fire engines, an ambulance and a coastguard helicopter.
The park was forced to end its season early, having been due to close for the winter on Wednesday, November 15.
Nearly a week on, the water has dried out and caravans have returned to their usual positions.
Staff have thanked the emergency services who rushed to Burton Bradstock to help.
A spokesperson for Freshwater Beach Holiday Park said: "We're feeling positive today as we work towards recovering from the damage caused by Storm Ciarán.
"We'd like to express our sincere gratitude and thanks to the emergency services who responded so efficiently during the recent storm.
"We extend a special thank you to HM Coastguard - Dorset, Hampshire & Isle of Wight South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust Marine Engagement Team, Dorset Police Dorset Air Ambulance, Dorset Council and our staff who worked together as a team to maintain a calm resolution to the situation caused by the storm."
The Holiday Park also paid tribute to members of the public who took in guests during the storm and sent messages of support to staff following the damage.
Staff say they are "determined to come back stronger"
"We also appreciate the goodwill and positivity sent by many of you in the past week", a spokesperson for the Holiday Park added.
"We would like to thank the members of the wider Holiday Park community who offered support and took in our marooned guests during our time of need.
"We're determined to come back stronger and brighter than ever. Please show your support by booking your next holiday with us at Freshwater."
Following the storm, The Jurassic Fun Centre will remain closed until Saturday, November 11.
This will allow staff the time needed to make the site safe and allow visitors to return.
The holiday park is due to reopen for 2024 in March as usual and bookings can be made through the Freshwater Beach Holiday Park website.
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