Godstone resident, aged 87, defiantly remains in home near Surrey sinkhole, showing true British resolve.

Families head back home as sinkhole devours road Image source, Reuters Image caption, Six evacuated families are making their way back after two sinkholes emerged since Monday By Adrian HarmsBBC News, Godstone Katy Docherty-WarrenBBC News, South East Published21 February 2025 Six families have been given the green light to return to their homes following a sinkhole gobbling up a significant portion of a Surrey road. Residents from 30 properties in Godstone were instructed to evacuate in the wee hours of Tuesday after the hole made its appearance in the village overnight. Catherine Sayer, leader of Tandridge District Council, mentioned that they were contemplating the possibility of allowing other families to return home. Previously, families had expressed their dismay at being rendered "homeless" by the sinkhole and were uncertain about when they would be able to return home. Ms Sayer conveyed her apologies for any feelings of letdown due to the level of support provided by the local authority, emphasizing that the council was endeavouring to keep residents informed. A representative for Tandridge District Council (TDC) stated that affected residents and businesses would be exempt from paying council tax or business rates while they were unable to utilize their properties. Families were compelled to vacate their homes after a 100m cordon was established when a second sinkhole made its appearance in Godstone High Street. A major incident had been declared initially, but it is now being referred to as a "significant incident". An 87-year-old resident told BBC Radio Surrey that he and his wife would remain in their home just meters away from the sinkholes. Bren Davis, residing approximately 60ft (18m) from the sinkhole, mentioned that he had lived in his property, constructed by his grandfather, all his life. Despite the lack of water, he was adamant about not leaving, stating, "I'm staying put." Mr Davis revealed his confidence in the stability of his house, with more bricks lying beneath than above. He shared that he had formulated an escape plan in case of an emergency. Godstone Farm's CEO, Nicola Henderson, expressed concerns about the long-term impact of the disruption on the village, despite prioritizing the welfare of the animals. She admitted, "There's a lot at stake here." Garage owner Shane Fry optimistically anticipated that customers would soon have limited access to the High Street. Surrey County Council mentioned, "Any decision to move the cordon back will depend on the outcome of technical safety assessments over the coming days." Residents voiced their apprehensions about potentially being homeless for an extended period. The original sinkhole emerged late on Monday night following a burst water pipe, extending to at least 65ft (20m) by Tuesday noon. TDC affirmed on Thursday, "The sinkhole in Godstone remains a significant incident, and we continue to work closely with our partners to resolve the situation as quickly as possible." A spokesperson for SES Water confirmed the restoration of water supplies for all customers in the area and collaboration with other involved agencies. Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, external, on X, external and on Instagram, external. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk, external or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. sinkholes, godstone, homes, families, bbc