Six people were killed across the UK as the storm's severe conditions hit.

Flood prevention defences designed to deal with river levels of 3.8m were destroyed when its banks burst. Repairs are set to cost almost £4m.

Months on from the life-changing rainfall, some in the community face spending Christmas stuck in hotels miles from their wrecked homes.

Pensioners Ian and Jane Stewart have lived in their property for almost four decades. The terraced house is now a ruined shell.

The pair, who are in their 80s, told Sky News their age made them more vulnerable to recovering from the ferocious conditions thrown at them by Babet.

Ian said: "I feel sorry for my wife. She didn't have much money, but she loved the house. Everything else is easier when you're younger, you can get through these kinds of situations. I am 82 now and you just... It's hard. Really hard.

"When we were flooded in 2002 we were out for over 10 months.

"That was 20 years ago when we were a bit younger and fitter. Old age creeps up on you and you just struggle a bit."

The couple told Sky News that living in a hotel has been "hell".

Householders and tenants affected by Storm Babet have started receiving Scottish government grants of £1,500. Businesses that are impacted are getting £3,000.

It is believed 200 payments have been made so far.

Some people in Brechin, who have raised concerns the support package does not go far, have been raising their own funds for those who have lost everything.

Brechin Buccaneers, a charity cricket club, told Sky News they have raised £100,000.

Read more:
Storm Babet forces evacuations in red alert area of Angus due to floods
Woman dies after being swept into river amid 'unprecendented rainfall'
£37k raised - but 'long road to recovery' ahead

The community coming together

Grant Hutchison, community development manager, said: "The initial shock has gone and now we are faced with a second shock when people are getting re-homed into houses with nothing in them.

"It's £100,000 for 220 ground-floor homes. I know it sounds like a fantastic amount and it is, we are so grateful for everyone worldwide who has donated. But when you break it down £500 for your life's possessions is quite small."

The Scottish government has insisted it is getting cash to flood-hit people quickly.

A spokesman said: "The Scottish government is committed to playing its part in helping those affected and we have been working closely with Angus Council to support the local recovery.

"If people and businesses affected are yet to make a claim, we urge them to do so by contacting the council or attending the drop-in centres in Brechin."