THE £3.5 million Teignmouth flood defence scheme has suffered a hold-up – because of a mystery culvert and poor weather.

The structure was uncovered near the New Quay Inn. trying to establish ownership and modifying the design of the project, and other problems, caused a four-week delay.

The area around the harbour is littered with old pipes, but despite a thorough investigation by Teignbridge Council, the Environment Agency and South West Water, the history of the culvert is still a mystery.