This video shows the moment the driver of a Skoda decided to risk his life by trying to pass the hazardous obstruction. It happened during the storm which swept across Cornwall on Sunday, ripping off roofs and flooding homes and hotels.

This video was shot by Adam Lobb in Penzance, one of the worst affected areas on an area known as the Abbey Slip. The slip was awash with water and despite waves breaking across the bonnet, the car ploughs on, before accelerating out the other side.

Thousands of people have already watched the footage Adam posted on Facebook. He said he thought he was going to have to jump in to rescue the motorist after it pauses midway across to let a particularly big wave surge through.

In a follow up post Adam wrote: "He thought the water was more shallow than it was, he's not some idiot that was going for a thrill, he just didn't expect it to be that bad.

"I didn't know who it was until after the video. We talked about it and he was okay. But I was shocked and kind of speechless."

Marianne Morgans wrote on facebook: "He or she is lucky to be alive. People have drowned off Abbey Slip, in a lot less volatile seas than that.

"Maybe all the muppets who decided to drive through the bloody sea, I know it was more than one car who had a go, should all be sent to sea to work and earn their money over the winter.

"Just see how cocky they are after. And if they do try it again.... I'm pretty sure they'd know most of the RNLI lads by name by then, so if they do need to be rescued at least they can face that humiliation, and explain why they endangered not only their life but the people who came to rescue him."