Herefordshire is in the grip of what is turning into the longest continued cold spell for many years – and is braced for more to come.
On Tuesday, the Met Office issued an alert stating that heavy snow was affecting all parts of the Midlands and travel was being disrupted.
The forecast is for a further seven to ten days of freezing nights, ice and snow, and the county’s rapid response and council and health service providers are on full alert.
Buses on their way to many county schools were being turned back as schools closed earlier this week, and college students were sent home.
Other school closures were being reported as the Journal went to press.
Four inches of snow fell in the Leominster area and Dinmore Hill was closed yesterday morning (Tuesday) when a lorry jack-knifed.
Bus services were also being severely disrupted throughout the county with many services cancelled while rail passengers were facing delays.
Roadside stocks are being replenished to help residents and there is a streets hotline for people to call for re-stocking on (01432) 261800.
Police have re-issued a reminder after black ice and snow caught some motorists out causing a spate of collisions and vehicles sliding off the road into hedges and ditches.
They are advising drivers to adjust their driving manner to dangerous conditions, especially on side roads, and to clear their windows properly.
Pedestrians are also being warned to take care on pavements and roads, especially on housing estates.
Police spokesman Pete Butcher said: “The best thing under the circumstances is to remind people that if they need help they should phone the non-emergency police number which is 0300-333-3000.”
With the prospect of more school closures over the next few days, police are reminding parents to be vigilant over the safety of their children and to warn them away from frozen lakes and ponds to avoid tragedy.