A SHOP has reopened after it was destroyed by floods.

The roof of Lifestyle and Mobility, in the Knightswick Centre, Canvey, collapsed three months ago, destroying £15,000 worth of stock.

The store, which sells mobility scooters, recliner chairs and orthopedic beds, needed to be completely re-fitted with a new carpet and ceiling.

Canvey suffered widespread flooding on July 20, after 100mm of rain fell in just four hours.

Water pooled on the roof of the shopping centre, before it gave way, causing the water to gush into Lifestyle and Mobility.

Aaron Sverdloff, director of the business, said three inches of rain was puddled on the shop floor.

He added: “We were certainly in for a shockwhen we turned up to work. I remember hearing on the radio there had been really bad flooding on Canvey, and thinking ‘I hope it doesn’t affect us’.

“Anything which wasn’t immediately destroyed by the rain falling through the roof was ruined by damp. You can imagine the smell which built up in the shop as we tried to clear all that water.” The shop, which first opened in November 2013, opened its doors to the public again yesterday, after being closed for three months.

Balloons were put up around the store and customers were treated to homemade cakes and refreshments.

Mr Sverdloff said: “We’re very pleased to be open again and are looking forward to a positive future. We’ve been very busy and even had people popping in just to say they’re happy we’re up and running again. The support has been brilliant.”

Lifestyle and Mobility also has branches in Market Square, Basildon, and in the Asda superstore, in Shoebury.

The business has signed up to the Government-backed Motability scheme, which allows customers to use their disability living allowance to rent mobility scooters and wheelchairs, which come complete with insurance and maintenance cover.

For more information, visit www.lifestyleandmobility.co.uk