FLOOD defences held out in the face of a massive storm surge across the Tendring coast last night.

Coastal communities were bracing themselves for major flooding after weather alerts across the country.

But sea defences put up in the aftermath of the 1953 tragedy prevented a repeat of the Great Flood.

Residents were breathing a sigh of relief this morning but more tidal surges are on the way.

The Cafe on the Pier, in Harwich, was one victim of last nights high tides, which peaked after midnight.

It was swamped by almost 1ft of water.

Owner Steve Webb was salvaging what he could this morning.

"I've never known anything like it before," he said.

Some water breached the Harwich defences and flooded part of the quayside, Church Street and King's Quay Street.