Storm Ciaran: the grounds of the Penboc'h Spiritual Centre devastated!

Located in the Morbihan department of Brittany, the Penboc'h spiritual centre suffered extensive damage on the night of 1 to 2 November when storm Ciaran hit.

Nearly 150 trees were uprooted, including a Monterey pine that is over 150 years old. Great care had been taken to maintain the pine, oak and beech trees, which had recently been audited. One of the three buildings suffered major damage: the roof was badly damaged by the wind and a falling tree. A stone cross was blown off the chapel roof, damaging slates in the process. The cast-iron statue of the Virgin and Child, emblematic of this place that welcomes many retreatants, fell from its plinth. The surrounding wall, which is currently being restored, also suffered: slates engraved by schoolchildren who have visited the site since the 19th century were loosened by the gusts of wind.

Closed on 2 November, the centre was due to reopen on 12 November. The priority is to clear access and make the whole site safe. Numerous volunteers have offered their services and begun to clean up the grounds. It will take several months to restore the roofs and grounds. The wood from the felled trees will be recycled to build on what was destroyed. Once the park has been cleared, planting work will be carried out in conjunction with Arradon town council.

Patrick Sicard (Director of the Penboc'h Spiritual Centre)