THE devastation at Holyhead marina on Friday has prompted an outpouring of help and support.

Thousands of pounds worth of damage and more than 80 boats were sunk or damaged when "unprecedented" storm force 12 winds hit the coast in the early hours of Friday.

A team at Holyhead Marina battled to save stricken vessels as the port took a battering from Storm Emma.

As the clean up operation began, volunteers turned out over the weekend and a Crowd Funding campaign was launched by Holyhead Charter Boats.

More than £3,000 has already raised towards a £10,000 target. It is hoped the money will help create a new mooring for charter boat businesses.

Marilyn Vale donating £50 said it was a: "Tragic event for all, hope you are soon back and up and running."

David Hellon, giving £50, said: "Hope this helps, spent many great days out on your boats and looking forward to your return SOON."

Wendy Havard donating £30 said: "Tragic what's happened to the Marina, so many boats been lost. I sincerely hope you beat the target that's been set."

Holyhead Charter Boats group said: "We are truly shocked and overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness of people we have never met. This kindness is unexpected thank to all who have offered their support and words of support.

"We aim to raise enough funding to help provide some sort of a marina for their futures. They have lost everything; businesses, homes, memories, for most their only income for their families and the marina.

"Destroyed were the Spindrift, BadBoyz and the My Way. These gents worked all year in all seasons to provide for their families and now face a fierce start to the year with nothing and no marina to try and earn a living."

Anglesey Lbour MP Albert Owen said: "On Anglesey, the storm force winds hit the coast in an unprecedented way. This was compounded by high spring tides. There was structural damage to sea defences.

"At Holyhead Harbour the damage to the marina and to vessels was horrendous, with severe damage to property and infrastructure. I have met and liaised with the operators, the port authority and agencies. I have met those who have lost commercial and leisure vessels and we must now fully assess the impact and mitigate further damage to the area and the environment.

"The response of local residents has been resilient and supportive. I will continue to work with the local community, businesses and appropriate authorities to co-ordinate help and support."

The extreme weather also impacted across the country.

Gwynedd and Anglesey saw water supplies disrupted as icy weather took hold and pipes burst.

Powerful waves also smashed through sea defences in Benllech trapping an Asda delivery van and a 40ft pine tree came down in front of Capel Libanus.

Mr Owen added: "Water supplies have also been disrupted across the island. I’m informed Welsh Water are working flat out to repair pipes and infrastructure damaged by the weather.

"I pay tribute to the emergency agencies and volunteers for their dedication at this difficult time."