Elderly Couple Finds Refuge in Local Wetherspoon After Storm Destroys Home
An elderly couple from Cornwall, Catherine and Harold Mills, have turned their local Wetherspoon pub into a temporary home after a devastating storm left their house in ruins. The couple, aged 86 and 84, were forced to flee with only a few belongings when a massive pine tree crashed through their property during Storm Goretti on January 8.
From Weekly Visitors to Full-Time Residents
Previously, Catherine and Harold were regulars at The John Francis Basset in Camborne, visiting once a week for affordable meals and drinks. However, after the storm destroyed their home of 23 years, they immediately sought safety at the pub. They checked into the hotel on January 9 and have been staying there ever since, with plans to remain until at least March 5 while they await rental accommodation.
Their insurance is covering the costs of their stay, making the situation more manageable. Catherine described the traumatic experience, noting they escaped with just cuts and bruises, but lost many personal items. "We left with pretty much nothing," she said, emphasizing the suddenness of the disaster.
Life at the Pub: Comfort and Community
Living above the bar, the couple has become part of the furniture, enjoying daily cooked breakfasts and dinners from the Wetherspoon menu. They pay separately for alcoholic drinks, keeping track of expenses, but relish the affordable options, including their favorite cheap glass of wine. Catherine praised the staff for their kindness and flexibility, mentioning that they even adjust menu items upon request.
The couple has tried nearly everything on the menu, with Catherine unexpectedly favoring the sticky Korean chicken bowl. She highlighted the social aspect, saying, "If you are alone and lost your home like that and came here, you would make so many friends." The pub's regulars and staff have provided a supportive environment, helping them cope with the loss.
Recovering from the Storm's Impact
The storm caused extensive damage to their home, with the tree crashing through the lounge, kitchen, and a bedroom. Catherine recounted the terrifying moment, noting her husband narrowly avoided serious injury. The property remains unsafe and uninhabitable, with repairs estimated to take over a year. Despite the stress, the couple feels fortunate to have found refuge at Wetherspoon.
Catherine expressed deep gratitude, stating, "I don't think we can buy a card big enough to thank everyone there for what they've done for us." She defended the pub against critics, asserting that it has been a lifesaver during this difficult time. The Mills plan to continue visiting even after they move out, having become lifelong fans of the establishment.
This story underscores the resilience of an elderly couple facing housing instability and the unexpected role of a budget pub in providing shelter and community support during a crisis.
