A quaint north-Suffolk museum could miss out on its biggest cash boost of the year after a flash flood forced it to close.

The Southwold Museum will shut for two months during the height of the summer season to repair costly water damage to carpets and displays.

The site fell victim to an on-set flood on July 8, when a torrential downpour overwhelmed drains and caused water to breach the doorstep.

But museum president Simon Loftus assured people this week that no artefacts were damaged, and the museum will re-open again as soon as possible.

He said: 'The main thing is that none of the exhibits have been damaged, and there was no damage to the artefacts, but some of the displays may need replacing.

'The museum will re-open in a couple of month's time and will be as good as new – there is nothing to worry about in terms of the museum's treasures.

'It is just very frustrating for us that we will be closed during the summer season, but we are hoping the insurance will cover that.

'If anybody does feel sympathetic and wants to give us a donation, we would be very happy to receive it.'

Water damage was contained in the museum's modern extension and did not reach the grade-II listed building.

But volunteers are still facing months of disruption as display cases are moved so carpets can be replaced.

Mr Loftus hopes damage and loss of trade will be covered by the museum's insurance policy.

A museum was established in Southwold during the 1930s when two 17th century dutch-style cottages were gifted to the town.

For information about the museum, or to make a voluntary donation, contact on 01502 726097 or email southwold.museum@btinternet.com