Farmers to the rescue as big freeze causes chaos

FARMERS across the country have sprung into action to rescue stranded motorists and clear snow-covered roads as Britain finds itself in the grip of the big freeze.

Heavy snowfall in the south and east of England last night (Tuesday, January 5) added to the chaos after parts of Scotland and Northern England were hit by arctic blizzards on Monday (January 4).

Up to 10 inches of snow fell across parts of London and the Home Counties overnight and a further six inches of snow is expected to hit those areas today (Wednesday, January 6).

In Hampshire, the County Council turned to farmers to help it clear roads and assist stranded motorists as it faced a salt shortage leaving resources stretched as it worked to keep roads clear.

In statement, Hampshire County Council said: “Owing to a high usage of salt over an unprecedented period of severe weather in the UK, we will be managing salt stocks carefully as the demand for salt nationwide is high. Salt stocks are due to be partially replenished by the end of this week.

“Since the onset of the cold weather, over 120 farmers have been mobilised to undertake snow clearance work.”

Send us your pictures

Have you been affected by the heavy snow? Let us know how you have been coping. You can also send us your pictures and we will put them up on the website.

Email your pictures to marcello.garbagnoli@ubm.com

View our snow pictures gallery here.

Readers' comments (1)

  • bit slow with that news! Farmers in the north have been digging out roads and clearing tracks for old people since 19th December! We have had a whiteout here since then. (north lancs) We have no grit or salt and are using gravel on hills. We haven't seen a gritter since it started, but the main roads have been kept clear. Enquiries to the council get the reply that they have no spare salt or grit for us.

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