following a frantic salvage operation.

And a big sale of cut-price salvaged goods is planned for Friday and Saturday.

Up to $80,000 flood damage is now feared to have been caused to M & M International and Sports `R' Us.

Staff have been working round the clock to dry out the Church Street stores, which sell electrical goods and sportswear.

The businesses, located in the Shoppers Fair building, were hit by floodwater after a corroded water heater pipe burst.

Nine firemen, equipped with water sucking machines, were alerted at 8.40 a.m.

on Monday.

They found water one-inch deep across a 30-by-50 foot floor area. Damaged stock included stereos, TVs, videos, and sports clothing.

Mr. Daren Mayeaux, manager of Sports `R' Us, said water had soaked two floors.

Staff had been using dehumidifiers to dry out carpets and stock, he added.

"It's too early to say how much damage has been caused -- anywhere between $50,000 and $80,000.

"We've managed to salvage a lot of goods, however, and will be having a sale on Friday and Saturday''.

Mr. Mayeaux said the cut-price goods would be in good condition.

WATER DISASTER! -- Mr. Daren Mayeaux, manager of Sports `R' Us, ruefully looks over the ruptured hot water heater which caused the weekend's flooding.