St Jude still wreaking Havoc!

Around 100 passengers who’s cars were damaged during the “St Jude Day” storm, have begun to return home to Dover in Kent today to see the destruction for them selves.

Reports state that around 22 of cars involved were insured with the insurance company LV and their customers were meet at Dover by LV representatives along with Port staff. Damages included smashed windscreens, flooding and significant body work dents. Out of their 22 customers 13 of these cars were total ‘Write offs’ with owners provided with hire cars to enable them to get home after their trip. The remaining 9 cars covered by LV, had visible damage however were drivable. these customers were given information and clear instruction advising what they needed to do next to get their vehicle’s repaired.

Although it is understandable that these sights will have been extremely upsetting to return too, the extent of the damage was no surprise. Mike Rodwell, Managing Director at Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, confirmed “For those who had their cars parked at the Port, we provided them with a free phone call to allow them the chance to contact their insurance companies and/or family and friends” Therefore all customer involved were fully aware of the incident and kept up to date with the situation.

St Jude hit most parts ok the UK last Monday leaving the country along with Dover port in turmoil. It has been reported that the majority of the damage was caused by severe seas breaking over the pier in the high winds. The port of Dover was closed for 2 hours last Monday during the storm where winds at times got to above 70 miles a hour. The eastern dock managed to get off with minor disturbance, however the western docks sustained the most damage with repairs needing to be done to hand-rails, fencing and canopies in the Fishermans walk. This part of the port was closed for a number of days whilst they made the necessary repairs to these areas.

I must say as far as the staff and help these customers received on returning to such disappointing news. The situation was dealt with professionally and quickly and they continue to support the customer involved through their claims offering any help where they possibly can. This help will also be available for the customers effected that are currently on Fred Olsens Black Watch on  a 22 day round Med cruise due to return Saturday 16th November. All this help would have been a great constellation for  all involved

Living in Kent myself although my town got off relatively lightly, we didn’t have to travel far to see the extent of destruction this storm  left behind and I can not imagine how these passengers felt returning from a fantastic holiday with this to face. All I can say is WELL DONE! to all that made this easier for these people you did a great job!

Do you think Fred Olsen and LV have given these customers exceptional service in exceptional circumstances?