I live 180 metres from the banks of the River Severn in the ancient market town of Bridgnorth, Shropshire. As I write this I have received a flood alert. This is the new reality here and so many other places. Recently The Guardian published a major story about the Severn - asking the question 'what can we do'? You can read it here (warning it's depressing news) The Guardian River Severn flood feature . Interestingly they focus on the Georgian town of Bewdley, 15 miles downstream of here, which has received visit's from Prime Ministers who arrive for a photo-opportunity and promise the earth (or 'earth movers'). It's so political and meantime Bridgnorth is the Aunt Sally to Bewdley's guilded lady.