In the words of Morris Cottrill, a former resident of Derwent village, he reminisces about the transformation of the once picturesque area into a man-made landscape. Derwent, along with Ashopton, faced deliberate submergence on March 18, 1943, as massive torrents were unleashed, altering the scenery forever.
As the water levels surged, structures dating back to the 17th century gradually vanished beneath the flood. Only the spire of St John and St James church in Derwent remained visible above the water after 6,310 million gallons engulfed the area. The church had its final service prior to the deliberate flooding by the Chairman of the Derwent Valley Water Board.
Derwent and Ashopton were vibrant communities with a rich history before their relocation. Derwent Hall, established in 1672 and once owned by the Duke of Norfolk, and Ashopton, a bustling village with various amenities, were acquired by the Derwent Valley Water Board between 1935 and 1945, despite local opposition. The villagers were resettled in Yorkshire Bridge, leaving behind their former way of life.
The submerged villages occasionally resurface during droughts, attracting visitors to witness the remnants of the past. Charles Hanson, reflecting on the lost heritage, questions the government’s decision to flood the historic sites for water supply needs. The Ladybower Reservoir, completed in 1947, now showcases the remnants of the villages during low water levels, drawing curious onlookers.
Tourists flock to Ladybower not only for the submerged villages but also for a unique feature known as the giant ‘plughole’ at the dam’s southern end. This vortex-like structure has garnered attention, with recent incidents highlighting the risks involved in its vicinity. Severn Trent Water emphasizes the dangers posed by the ‘plughole,’ warning of potential harm and the need for professional rescue in case of accidents.
