Wrexham schools re-opening tomorrow

According to the councikl's website, there are currently 20 schools open or planning to reopen tomorrow in Wrexham County.

They are:

Ysgol Sant Dunawd CP, Bangor on Dee - Open

Further Information: Based on the current conditions, school will be open tomorrow. Please provide your child/children with appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear so that they can enjoy the snow at break times. Another update will be posted by 7.30am tomorrow. Many thanks, S. Tate.

Last Updated: 05:20PM 20/01/13

St Mary's Aided, Brymbo - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: Please check this page, the school web page and look out for school texts. It is our intention to open Monday. The forecast indicates early snow, however unlike Friday, there is no indication of heavy snow throughout the day. It would be advisable to make contingency plans for the coming week, as no forecast can be 100% accurate and a decision to open first thing could quickly be reversed. As always we will do our best to act decisively and as early as possible so that parents can make necessary arrangement. Thank you.

Last Updated: 01:39PM 20/01/13

Cefn Mawr CP School - Open

Further Information: At present, we are hoping to open on Monday morning as usual. However, with continued snow forcast for today and into the night, please check this site after 7.30 am tomorrow to confirm if the school is open or closed. Thank you. N.Conde

Last Updated: 04:24PM 20/01/13

Ysgol Min y Ddol CP, Cefn Mawr - Open

Further Information: Diolch yn fawr iawn i'n rhieni a gofalwyr am eu cefnogaeth ddydd Gwener. Rydym yn bwriadu ail-agor bore fory ond gwyliwch am ddiweddariad ar y safle we yma ar ol 7:30 bore fory. Byddwn hefyd yn eich diweddaru gyda neges destun. Many thanks to all our parents and carers for their support on Friday when we had to close the school at lunchtime due to the bad weather. We are intending to open on Monday morning however the snow is currently falling heavily and is forecast to continue throughout the night. Please check this website tomorrow morning after 7:30 when a final decision will be made. Diolch yn fawr iawn.

Last Updated: 04:27PM 20/01/13

Pentre Voluntary Controlled, Chirk - Open

Further Information: We are planning to open tomorrow. However, with continued snow forecast tonight, please continue to check this site or listen to Heart fm for more information. Thank you for your patience. Safety of all concerned is our top priority.

Last Updated: 04:19PM 20/01/13

Ysgol Bryn Tabor, Coedpoeth - Open

Further Information: We are hoping that the school will be open as normal on Monday. Please check this site in the morning. Please take care on the roads and if you are unable to bring your child to school you may telephone the school. Thank you, Kevin Williams.

Last Updated: 04:46PM 20/01/13

Gwersyllt - Support Centre PRU - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: The Centre will be open as usual tomorrow.Should there be further heavy snowfall please check this website.Thank you/Diolch.

Last Updated: 05:33PM 20/01/13

Bryn Alyn High School, Gwersyllt - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: We are intending to open the school as normal on Monday morning,21/1/13. B.Whiteley.

Last Updated: 02:15PM 20/01/13

Holt CP - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: It is our intention to open on Monday. However the forecast indicates further snow and we will make a final decision first thing tomorrow morning, so please continue to monitor this website or the School website. Thank you Kate Goodwin

Last Updated: 03:42PM 20/01/13

St Paul's Voluntary Aided Primary School, Isycoed - Open

Further Information: School will reopen Monday morning - weather permitting. This site will be updated by 7.30 am but please also check throughout the day in case we are forced to close early. Many thanks and keep safe.

Last Updated: 06:12PM 20/01/13

Johnstown Junior School - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: At present we are intending to reopen on Monday morning as usual. However, with continued snow forecast for today and into the night, please check this site and the school website www.johnstownjunionrschool.co.uk for more information. If conditions are difficult in the morning, a text will be sent to all parents, after 7.30 am, to confirm whether the school is open or closed.

Last Updated: 01:11PM 20/01/13

Penycae Community Primary - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: We are planning to open tomorrow. However, as you know, there has been a lot of snow this afternoon and snow is forecast for the LL14 area throughout the night. Therefore no final decision can be taken until tomorrow morning. Please check this site in the morning and the hotline 08447 707576 ID 58001

Last Updated: 05:17PM 20/01/13

Ysgol ID Hooson CP, Rhos - Open

Further Information: We intend to open the school as usual tomorrow. Naturally, please take care on the roads and in the car park. If, due to your own personal circumstances, you are unable to bring your child/ren to school, please contact the school via e-mail and not by phone: mailbox@hooson-pri.wrexham.sch.uk

Last Updated: 04:15PM 20/01/13

Ysgol Maes y Mynydd, Rhos - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: We are intending to open the school as usual tomorrow. A final decision will be made tomorrow morning based on the conditions and a decision posted on this website as soon as possible.

Last Updated: 02:48PM 20/01/13

Darland High School, Rossett - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: Darland High School will be open tomorrow. Please take extra care on the journey to school. Should there be a need to change this plan, parents will be informed by text and a message on this site. Thank you for your patience. Mr Agnew

Last Updated: 04:42PM 20/01/13

Ysgol Plas Coch CP, Wrecsam - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: We will be open tomorrow hopefully. Please take care and keep to the paths that have been cleared this afternoon around the school. This site will be updated in the morning.

Last Updated: 05:26PM 20/01/13

Acton Park Community Primary, Wrexham - Open

Further Information: At present we are hoping to avoid further disruption and re-open on Monday morning as usual. However, with continued snow forecast for today and into the night, please check this site for more information. A text will be sent to all parents first thing on Monday morning to confirm whether the school is open or closed. Thank you.

Last Updated: 03:08PM 20/01/13

Barker's Lane CP, Wrexham - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: Thank you for your support and the arrangements made when we were forced to close school early on Friday. We intend to open school as usual tomorrow. However as you will be aware snow has fallen throughout the day and is forecast to continue into the night, therefore please check the website early in the morning for an update when a final decision can be made. If, following a risk assessment, we have to remain closed a text will also be sent. Miss Edwards

Last Updated: 03:49PM 20/01/13

St Josephs Catholic & Anglican High Sch, Wrexham - Reopening Tomorrow

Further Information: School is open to all on Monday, January 21st. If there is any subsequent/significant change to the information texted at 3pm today, please be reassured that parents will be contacted directly, by text, signposting you to the school website where we have more space for text to deliver messages in full. Re: School Transport, please be aware that the Bus Companies will naturally be taking extra care on Monday morning, and that this may lead to some altered arrival and collection times. Wrexham County Borough Council advises….." the route taken by certain vehicles may vary from normal. In the interests of safety, you are advised to make sure that pupils are at their pick-up point at least 10 minutes earlier than usual.” MESSAGE RE BUS ROUTES: At present, George Edwards’ Coaches have advised that they are not planning to run in Gwynfryn and Bwlchgwyn, and so pupils need, where possible, to pick up their bus in Coedpoeth, please. We will pass on any further messages about specific routes to you if/as soon as we receive them, but please be patient and understand if/where your child does not use school transport, but we have needed to send a message out relating to school transport. It is hoped that the combination of regular and effective gritting, and the ongoing flow of commuter traffic during the earlier part of the morning, will mean that all will be well for safe travel for all. All pupils, whether passengers or pedestrians, are urged to take extra care on their journey. Where practicable, pupils will need to carry their school shoes in their school bag, and change into these when they enter the building, for their comfort and safety. Thank you to all parents and carers for your support in understanding our enforced closure on Friday. We hope all pupils are safe and well, and that families are not too inconvenienced by the weather. Mrs. Maria B. Rimmer, Headteacher

Last Updated: 04:16PM 20/01/13

Wat's Dyke CP, Wrexham - Open

Further Information: It is our intention to open the school at the usual time on Monday. Thank you for your co-operation regarding the early closure on Friday.

Last Updated: 04:14PM 20/01/13

Parents are advised to listen to Heart FM on 103.4FM if they are concerned about school closures. The Heart FM website will include a list of school closures in the Wrexham area.

Council website: http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/education/school_status.cfm

Welsh councils fear having to pick up tab for health shake-up

The BBC news website has a story today (Sunday) which says Welsh councils are concerned they may be forced to pick up the bill in the wake of the latest NHS shake-up if proposals are not properly costed.

See the story at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-21113298

Peter Pan flies to a Pavilion hit

* Just some of the cast members of Peter Pan.

Where else, apart from panto, could you see a band of “Welsh” Red Indians dancing around their campfire swigging from cans of Wrexham Lager?

That was one of the more memorable scenes in Llangollen Pantomime Group’s latest production, Peter Pan, which was staged successfully at the town’s Pavilion from last Wednesday until Saturday.

Despite the snow which turned up on Friday, audiences flocked to see the spectacular show which pierced the winter gloom with a bolt of colour, music and sheer fun.

The Pavilion has an enormous stage yet at times it was filled to bursting point by the huge cast which appeared to comprise most of the under-18s population of the town.

Whether they were playing Indians, Lost Boys or Pirates, the legion of kids – all attired in the most colourful of costumes – sang and danced their way through the action to perfectly augment the efforts of the principals in this tale based (loosely) on the famous J M Barrie novel about the little boy who never grew up.

Shining brightly in the role of Peter was the powerfully-voiced Aaron Davies, while an equally admirable vocal performance came from Dani Chamberlain as Wendy, one of the Darling children who wing away with him to Never Never Land.

Jo Potts made an impish Tinkerbell, the chief fairy who guides the group of young travellers through their fantastic odyssey.

Peter’s adversary is the fearsome Captain Hook, who was portrayed by Tracey Rawlinson with the perfect amount of villainous intent and plenty of snarls at the audience.

Another star performance came from Justine Bradley as Chief Jones, the leader of those very Welsh Red Indians who knock back Wrexham Lager, wear red dragon-adorned headgear and have a talent for singing Tom Jones songs.

Comedy knock-about and banter was supplied by Jo Pearson and Ali Burke as a right couple of idiots, Me and You.

Other audience favourites were Mr and Mrs Darling played by Dean Richards and Tessa Orton-Jones.

In what was definitely a family affair, the role of the Dame – Nanna – was taken by Simon Orton-Jones who also directed the show and penned the script with Nico Decourt.

Peter Pan was a credit to everyone who appeared on stage and the equally talented band working behind the scenes led by producers Sharon Jones, Jo Potts and Elaine Morris.  

Horseshoe Pass still closed due to snow

The BBC live traffic website, last updated at 8.30am this morning (Sunday) shows that the A542 Horseshoe Pass remains closed in both directions, between Llangollen and Llandegla, because of snow.

County council speaks out over health changes

Denbighshire County Council has issued a response to major changes in healthcare in the region, announced by the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board last Friday.

These include the closure of Llangollen Cottage Hospital.

Councillor Bobby Feeley, Cabinet Lead Member for Social Care and Well-being said: "We are disappointed that the Health Board has decided against a joint hub for Ruthin/Denbigh and there is further disappointment at the closure of the Minor  Injuries Unit  and X-ray facility  in Ruthin, despite strong local opposition.

"Another key concern for us is the risk posed by plans to close in-patient care beds at Prestatyn and Llangollen Hospitals before new services are in place.

"We believe there is a lack of clearly costed undertakings to improve transport to underpin the changes and to provide services to support carers.  Although the transport issues were 'noted' by the Board, they did not seem to have come up with any solution, this is particularly important for rural areas.

"The fact there would be no neo-natal intensive care in North Wales is another issue of concern.

"However, we are pleased that minor injuries unit services will be commissioned from GP's in Corwen and Llangollen and that the Health Board is committed to plan implementation jointly. They need to commit to this fully or the changes announced will not work."

Denbighshire County Council says it remains committed to working closely with the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board on ensuring that the residents of Denbighshire receive the best possible health care available.

llanblogger achieves page view record

Yesterday (Friday) llanblogger attracted a record number of page views - over 500!

That's a fantastic milestone we have passed.

The high degree of interest in our site might have had something to do with our live coverage of problems caused by the snow and the simultaneous updates we brought you on the decision to axe Llan Cottage Hospital.

Thanks to everyone who checked out our news coverage ... and keep logging on as we've got lots more good stuff to come.

Phil Robinson

Editor

Health decision sparks angry letter from KLS chair

* Angry letter ... KLS chair Mike Edwards. 

In the wake of yesterday (Friday's) decision by the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), Mike Edwards, chair of Keep Llangollen Special, has penned an angry letter to Wales's Shadow Health Minister Darren Millar, which says:

"Having seen Denbighshire CC as LPA blatantly ignore public opinion and Planning Policy Wales and now BCUHB ignore public consultation responses it occurs to me what an utter sham public consultation exercises are!

 

"Why does government national or local and other public bodies have the honesty to say 'we've decided to do the following......' and not go through these expensive exercises which are not going to alter anything?

 

"I'm afraid to say if your party were in power in the Senedd you would probably go through the same insulting processes of appearing to take people's views into consideration.

 

"Recent decisions by the local panning authority will ruin Llangollen's vibrant town centre and now the Health Board are closing our Community Hospital forcing patients and their family support networks to travel to Chirk or Wrexham!

 

"You can surely appreciate the despair the people of Llangollen feel."  

Cheers to Llan's sober motorists!

Llangollen motorists were praised for their abstemiousness at this week's Town Council meeting.

 

Across the country more than 500 drivers were caught over the drink drive limit during the All Wales Christmas Anti Drink and Drug Driving Campaign.

Throughout the campaign 35,493 drivers were breath tested between December 1 and January 1.

 

North Wales Police carried out 18,780 breath tests - double the amount carried out during the 2011 Christmas campaign with 107 being positive.

 

However, none of over-the-limit drivers were from Llangollen, town clerk Gareth Thomas told members of the Town Council at their monthly meeting on Tuesday, adding: "Obviously, the police campaign worked."

Cllr Bob Lube, (pictured right) who was chairing the meeting in the absence of the mayor, Cllr Jon Haddy, said: "The people of Llangollen have to be commended for their abstemiousness."     

The two highest readings recorded by North Wales Police were 147 and 142, where two individuals were over four times the legal drink drive limit. The legal limit is 35. Both people were subsequently charged and placed before the courts.

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing, who is in charge of the North Wales Police Roads Policing Unit said: “Although warnings were given throughout the campaign that we would be out and about, 107 drivers chose to ignore our warnings and risked their own lives and the lives of others by breaking the law. This is very disappointing.

“However the good news is that nobody was killed or seriously injured on the roads of North Wales by a drink driver throughout the campaign.
 

“The feedback we have received from members of the public via email and via our social networking sites has been extremely positive. We have had many people commenting on the fact that they really did think about getting behind the wheel the morning after drinking alcohol and this is very encouraging."

* If you have information relating to someone you think is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please contact North Wales Police on 101 or via Crimestoppers Wales anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.

Full details of health changes approved today

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has now given details of exactly what was approved at its meeting in St Asaph earlier today (Friday).

They are:

Health Care in North Wales is Changing

Friday, 18 January 2013

At today’s extraordinary Board meeting, the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board gave their approval to a series changes to the way health services are delivered in North Wales.

The changes that have been agreed are the culmination of two year’s work that builds on previous reviews of health services in North Wales. They are designed to improve the quality of care and to ensure that services continue to be safe and sustainable in the long term.

 

The changes aim to provide the services that patients use most regularly as close to their homes as possible, so we don’t admit people to hospital when we could provide more appropriate care locally.

They aim to make community hospital services more dependable and consistent by focusing resources in key locations. This means that minor injuries services and x-ray can be provided at regular times, so patients know they can depend on them.

For more specialist services, the changes will improve the quality of care by supporting increased specialisation and ensuring that those who need complex care are treated by clinicians with high levels of experience and expertise.

As a result of the consultation, a number of aspects of the original proposals were amended and additional provisions were included in the recommendations to address concerns that had been raised, particularly in relation to community health services.

The proposals that have been agreed today are:

1. To improve community services by developing enhanced care at home services and to focus community hospital resources so that more consistent, reliable services can be provided.

Ten hospital hubs will be established, offering seven day a week minor injuries services with standardised opening times and an x-ray service available every working day, Monday to Friday. These will be at:

· Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley (Holyhead),

· Ysbyty Gwynedd,

· Ysbyty Alltwen (Tremadog),

· Dolgellau Community Hospital,

· Llandudno Hospital,

· Ysbyty Glan Clwyd,

· Denbigh Infirmary,

· Holywell Community Hospital,

· Mold Community Hospital and

· Wrexham Maelor Hospital

 

Following the consultation it was accepted that there was a strong case for designating Mold Community Hospital as one of the ‘hub’ hospitals for North East Wales, retaining Minor Injuries and X-ray services at the site.

The enhanced care at home service will be introduced across North Wales on a phased basis and will be operating across North Wales by the end of next year.

Proposals to develop primary care resource centres in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Flint and Llangollen were approved as was the development of a new community hospital on the Royal Alexandra Hospital site.

Other changes to the proposals that were made as a result of the consultation are:

· Flint Hospital will be retained, on an interim basis, to provide outpatient services including phlebotomy and minor surgery until the proposed primary care resource centre has been developed in the town;

· A number of X-ray sessions will continue to operate at Eryri and Bryn Beryl Hospitals and additional services for South Gwynedd residents will be commissioned in Machynlleth

· In common with a number of other practices in North Wales, the GP practice in Llangollen will be approached to provide a Minor Injuries Service for local residents.

In addition agreement has been reached with Powys and Hywel Dda Health Boards and the appropriate Community Health Councils to establish a formal planning Board to oversee the development and coordination of services across North Ceredigion, North Powys and South Gwynedd. This will ensure that services can be provided in a flexible manner, across organisational boundaries, to best meet the needs of people living in these areas.

As a result of these changes, the Board confirmed that inpatient beds in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Llangollen, Flint and Prestatyn Community Hospitals would close and inpatient care in these localities would instead be provided at Ysbyty Alltwen and community hospitals in Chirk, Holywell and Rhyl.

X-ray services will cease in Tywyn and Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Minor Injuries services at Flint, Ruthin, Llangollen, Chirk, Colwyn Bay, Blaenau Ffestiniog would also be closed, with services instead provided at the nearest hub hospital. The services at Bryn Beryl and Tywyn will be retained, with adjusted hours to reflect seasonal demand.

2 To confirm the expansion of community-based mental health care for older people in Dwyfor and Meirionnydd and the consequent permanent closure of the inpatient beds at Hafan Ward (Bryn Beryl Hospital) and Uned Meirion (Dolgellau Hospital).

There will also be a gradual reduction in beds from 25 to 18 at Cefni Hospital as community services are strengthened, with inpatient services eventually relocating to Ysbyty Gwynedd. Inpatient beds currently provided in Glan Traeth in Rhyl will be replaced as part of the new Community Hospital development in Rhyl.

 

3. To work with the Neonatal Networks to commission complex or longer term neonatal intensive care services from Arrowe Park Hospital for approximately 36 babies per year who need this level of care. Neonatal care for over 700 babies will continue to be provided in our local units.

4. To work towards consolidating complex inpatient arterial surgery and emergency vascular surgery into a single specialist centre in North Wales; the location of this has yet to be finalised.

As an interim step, services will be moved to be provided at two sites (Ysbyty Gwynedd and Wrexham Maelor Hospital) during 2013, with a single centre being set up by late 2014/early 2015 to ensure that the Health Board conforms with national guidance on current minimum surgical activity volumes and to enable preparations for the start of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm screening, expected in May 2013.

 

Full details of the recommendations that have been approved by the Board can be found on the health board’s website at http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/page/63769

Axe falls on Llan Cottage Hospital

* The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has decided to close Llangollen Cottage Hospital.

 

llanblogger has just received confirmation from an observer at the meeting that the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board his morning approved the closure of Llangollen Cottage Hospital.

The go-ahead to axe the hospital came as part of a package of measures to streamline health services across north Wales.

Our observer said: "Just had confrirmation that neonatal is going to Arrowe Park and all the proposals are going through as per the plans except Mold becomes a hub instead of Deeside.

 

"With Llangollen they will now submit a proposal for a new health centre to the Welsh Government."

 

In an immediate reaction, Llyr Gruffydd, Party of Wales AM for North Wales, said: “The decision to move neonatal intensive care services across the border now means there is no Level 3 Special Care Baby Unit north of Carmarthen.

"I fear this decision is putting lives at risk and it is inexplicable that it should be made in the face of clinical advice and opposition from respected professional bodies such as the RCN and BMA.
 

“The very real experiences of parents with babies that have gone through intensive care at our existing excellent SCBUs has also been ignored. I do not believe we were given the full facts regarding Arrowe Park and therefore the entire consultation process and final decision was skewed.

 

“The same criticism applies to the closure, downgrading and centralisation of community hospitals such as Llangollen, Ruthin and Flint.

 

GPs and patients alike are rightly sceptical of the promised replacements – where is the money coming from to build new health centres and ensure enhanced home care?

 

“My party, Plaid Cymru, wants to see an improved health service in the North but this decision will lead to a poorer health service for many communities and takes no regard of the very real transport problems many households have.

 

“This decision has been made without key questions being answered about finance and the impact on NHS staff.

 

"That’s why I call on the Community Health Council to now stand up for the people of North Wales – they must make a formal objection so that the Health Minister can intervene.

 

"If Lesley Griffiths wants to impose this model on North Wales, she shouldn’t be allowed to hide behind health boards who are not ultimately answerable to the people.”

Shadow Minister for Health, Darren Millar AM, said: “This is NHS bosses playing judge, jury and executioner on local healthcare across North Wales.

“Our region has been sentenced to unwanted NHS reform that will mean thousands travelling further for essential care.

“The suits at the top have turned their backs on the views of local people and respected professionals. This is an injustice that makes no sense and won’t be forgotten.

“It is simply not fair to force any patient – particularly families with newborns – to travel many miles for treatment.

“Make no mistake, opposition to these dangerous decisions will continue.

“Labour’s record-breaking NHS budget cuts have driven this reform agenda. The Minister must be honest about this and ensur that she is accountable for today’s injustie.”

North Wales Conservative AM Mark Isherwood said: “This is a sad day for North Wales,.

“There was strong objection to these proposals from the start, but the Health Board refused to attend any open public meetings. They have now blatantly ignored the views of those affected by these changes, dismissing the strong public opposition shown in the wider consultation. We will continue to fight these plans and The Minister must be accountable.

“Whilst I am pleased that Mold Hospital, which was also earmarked for closure, received an eleventh hour reprieve, I am extremely disappointed that Ffestiniog Memorial Hospital, Llangollen, Flint, and Prestatyn are all to close.

“Labour Welsh Government policy and its record breaking cuts of half a billion pounds over three years have driven theses closures and downgrading of services.

 

"The health managers insist the changes will lead to better care for patients, butreducing community hospital beds and moving services further away from often vulnerable patients will damage, rather than enhance, community based health services."

Pictures of a snow-bound Llan

llanblogger brings you these latest pictures of a snow-bound Llangollen.

If you would like to share your own pictures with readers, please email them to us at llanblogger@gmail.com

* The view from the canal towards Castle Street.

 

* A snow-flecked river looking towards Trevor.

* Llangollen Station from the bridge.

 

* An almost deserted Castle Street.

Horseshoe Pass now closed due to snow

Snow update in Denbighshire - 1.15pm
The latest weather update from the county council shows that the Horseshoe Pass in now closed.


Snow continues to affect Denbighshire, with more schools now closing, some roads affected and public transport disruption.

These are the schools currently closed:

Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen
Ysgol Bryn Collen, Llangollen
Ysgol Pentrecelyn

Ysgol Brynhyfryd (to open to exam students and teachers only)
Ysgol Gymraeg y Gwernant, Llangollen
Ysgol Pendref, Denbigh
Ysgol Bro Famau (Llanarmon and Llanferres)
Ysgol Dyffryn Ial (Bryneglwys and Llandegla)
Ysgol Bro Dyfrdwy (Cynwyd and Llandrillo)
Project 10 & 11.
Ysgol Betws Gwerfil Goch
Ysgol Tremeirchion
Ysgol Bro Elwern, Gwyddelwern
Ysgol Clocaenog
Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn, Dinbych (Park Street, Ty'r Ysgol, Gerddi Glasfryn and Ty'n Fron sites)
Ysgol Pant Pastynog, Prion.
Ysgol Caer Drewyn, Corwen
Ysgol Borthyn, Ruthin
Ysgol Rhewl
Ysgol Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd
St Brigid's School, Denbigh
Ysgol Bro Cinmeirch LLanrhaeadr
Rhyl High School
Blessed Edward Jones High School
Denbigh High School

Roads:

The Horseshoe Pass near Llangollen is closed, as is Gwaenysgor Hill. The A543 at Bylchau has re-opened..


Public Transport:

All northern Arriva services are *currently* operating normally. No information, however, available about the X94, though we know of some heavy drifting between Corwen and Glyndyffrdwy.

Most services south of Denbigh are also operating but may be subject to delays, though please note the following:

Denbigh to Mold service 14 (both Townlynx and GHA) now operating main roads only. Not diverting to villages.

X50 suspended Ruthin to Wrexham. This is owing to conditions on Llandegla Moor/Nant y Garth. Currently, services can go forward from Ruthin northwards to Denbigh and Rhyl but may be subject to disruption. Some drivers sand buses are displaced in wrong locations.

Ruthin - Mold Service currently suspended due to problems on Gwernymynydd hill.

Service 5 Wrexham - Corwen terminating Llangollen (owing drifting snow on A5). Assume X94 along similar route is also disrupted.

Service X5 Ruthin - Corwen is currently operating normally but there are reported difficulties at Gwyddelwern.

Service 64 Llangollen to Glyn Ceiriog terminating at Glyn Ceiriog and not Llanarmon DC but service is now struggling at Chirk.


The following are NOT operating:

Service 62 (Llansannan/Bylchau/Nantglyn/Prion)
70/77 (Ruthin Fflecsi to Clocaenog, Clawdd, Betws GG, Llanelidan) but the 73 Ruthin town service *is* operating
91 (Melin y Wig/Betws GG to Llangollen)
98 (Pentredwr) *not* operating.

All weather pitches at Ruthin and Denbigh Leisure Centres: These will be closed this evening due to a covering of snow.

Health shake-up latest

llanblogger's representative at the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board meeting in St Asaph this morning, where the region's major shake-up of services is being discussed, says that about 100 demonstrators have been lobbying board members.

A decision is expected by noon.

We will bring you an update as soon as possible after that.

 

Latest Denbighshire weather update ...

Snow update in Denbighshire - 9.30am.

These are the schools currently closed:

Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen
Ysgol Bryn Collen, Llangollen
Ysgol Pentrecelyn

Ysgol Brynhyfryd (to open to exam students and teachers only)
Ysgol Gymraeg y Gwernant, Llangollen
Ysgol Pendref, Denbigh
Ysgol Bro Famau (Llanarmon and Llanferres)
Ysgol Dyffryn Ial (Bryneglwys and Llandegla)
Ysgol Bro Dyfrdwy (Cynwyd and Llandrillo)
Project 10 & 11.
Ysgol Betws Gwerfil Goch

The following school buses are not operating (GHA Coaches)

Llansannan to Ysgol Glan Clwyd
Betws GG to Ysgol Brynhyfryd
Nantglyn to Denbigh High & Ysgol Glan Clwyd
Cerrig & Llanfihangel to Ysgol Brynhyfryd
Clawdd Poncen to Ysgol Brynhyfryd


Roads:

All roads are passable with care. Warning signs are in operation on the Horseshoe Pass near Llangollen.


Public Transport:

All northern Arriva services are *currently* operating normally. No information, however, available about the X94, though we know of some heavy drifting between Corwen and Glyndyffrdwy.

Most services south of Denbigh are also operating but may be subject to delays, though please note the following:

GHA's element of the 14 between Denbigh and Mold is currently using the main road only.

Service 2 (Ruthin - Mold) is likely now to be operating on main roads only (not via Maeshafan, Llanarmon, etc)

The following are NOT operating:

Service 62 (Llansannan/Bylchau/Nantglyn/Prion)
70/77 (Ruthin Fflecsi to Clocaenog, Clawdd, Betws GG, Llanedlian) but the 73 Ruthin town service *is* operating
91 (Melin y Wig/Betws GG to Llangollen)
98 (Pentredwr) *not* operating.

Wrexham schools closed today

In case anyone from this area attends them, we are letting you know that there are currently 27 school(s) closed or partially closed within Wrexham County Borough.

St Mary's Aided, Brymbo - Closed

Further Information: After very careful consideration, strong advice of many weather alerts not to travel plus our hilly position- the decision to close has been made. This decision has not been taken lightly, safety of all concerned is our priority.

Last Updated: 06:50AM 18/01/13

Bwlchgwyn CP - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Insufficient staff cover
• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Regretfully, conditions are worsening as I write, and in the interests of the health and safety of all pupils and staff, the decision to close has been taken.

Last Updated: 07:24AM 18/01/13

Pentre Voluntary Controlled, Chirk - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Insufficient staff cover
• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The school is closed due to the heavy snow. Sincere apologies for the delay in updating the school status- we have not been able to access the council website.

Last Updated: 09:26AM 18/01/13

Ysgol Bryn Tabor, Coedpoeth - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: School closed. Apologies for not updating the site earlier but the website had crashed.

Last Updated: 09:32AM 18/01/13

Cyfle Pupil Referral Unit - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to forecast severe weather and for the safety of our pupils and their babies, Cyfle will be closed today

Last Updated: 07:14AM 18/01/13

Froncysyllte CP - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Insufficient staff cover
• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The school is closed due to the heavy snow and conditions of the roads leading to school. Sincere apologies for the delay in updating the school status- we have not been able to access the council website.

Last Updated: 09:28AM 18/01/13

Garth CP - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: After a lot of careful consideration and following the advice of many weather alerts not to travel due to weather conditions plus our very hilly position- the decision to close has been made. This decision has not been taken lightly, safety of all concerned is of a high priority.

Last Updated: 07:14AM 18/01/13

Ysgol Cynddelw CP, Glynceiriog - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Sorry for any inconvenience

Last Updated: 07:27AM 18/01/13

Gwersyllt - Support Centre PRU - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The Centre will be closed today to ensure the safety of both pupils and staff.The taxi company which transports pupils has been informed accordingly.

Last Updated: 07:08AM 18/01/13

Bryn Alyn High School, Gwersyllt - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Last Updated: 07:24AM 18/01/13

Holt CP - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Unfortunately, due to the adverse weather it has been necessary to close the school for today. Thank you for support and understanding. Kate Goodwin

Last Updated: 07:15AM 18/01/13

Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog CP - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Heating system is not functioning
• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: We are sorry for any inconvenience caused

Last Updated: 07:33AM 18/01/13

Park Community Primary School, Llay - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to a change in the weather since 7.00 this morning, we have now decided to close the school.

Last Updated: 08:08AM 18/01/13

Minera Voluntary Aided School - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: As predicted it is already snowing in Minera so school is closed today. Hopefully we'll be open on Monday. Enjoy the weekend and keep safe.

Last Updated: 07:28AM 18/01/13

Maelor School, Penley - Partially Closed

Further Information: The Maelor School is closed today except for A level students taking their exams. There is a significant risk that transport to and from the school later in the day will be disrupted. I have therefore made the decision to close the school to pupils. A level students with exams today should attend school only if they have a safe journey to and from the site. These students should report to reception on arrival at school.

Last Updated: 07:09AM 18/01/13

Penycae Community Primary - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Following inspections of both sites and the connecting road betweeen 6.30 and 7.30 this morning, I have unfortunately decided to close the school today. A considerable amount of snow fell during this time, covering paths we had cleared. As the forecast is for continued snow throughout the day, the situation can only get worse. Apologies for the inconvenience this will cause. Apologies too for late updating of website, due to connection problems. T Newbould

Last Updated: 09:40AM 18/01/13

Pontfadog CP - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: School closed sorry for any inconvenience

Last Updated: 09:26AM 18/01/13

Ysgol y Grango, Rhos - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to the likely impact of the heavy band of snow which is moving across Wales, I have taken the decision to close the school today on health and safety grounds. Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause. Mr S Garthwaite

Last Updated: 07:22AM 18/01/13

Darland High School, Rossett - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to the likely impact of the forecast snow on school transport later in the day, I have taken the decision to close the school for pupils today on health and safety grounds. Work for students can be accessed on the VLE (follow link on school website). Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause. Mr Agnew.

Last Updated: 06:37AM 18/01/13

St Mary's Church in Wales, Ruabon - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to current conditions and severe weather warning we are closed today.

Last Updated: 09:36AM 18/01/13

Ysgol Maes y Llan CP, Ruabon - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to the change in the change in the road conditions within a very short period of time and the heavy band of snow forecast today it was decided to close the school to keep everyone safe. Kind Regards Mrs Magee

Last Updated: 09:40AM 18/01/13

Ysgol Rhiwabon High School, Ruabon - Partially Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The school will be closed on Friday January 18th 2013 to all students and staff due to the risk of severe weather and the potential travel disruption. This decision has been taken under advice from the Met office and travel organisations and is to ensure the safety of our students and staff, many of whom travel some distance. The school will be open for those students who have an external English Literature and Maths exam. tomorrow. The school anticipates being open on Monday as normal but please check the Wrexham Council and school website for further updates over the weekend. Thank you all for your assistance and support Alun Harding Headteacher

Last Updated: 06:50AM 18/01/13

Ysgol Morgan Llwyd, Wrecsam - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to the forecast weather conditions and the transport issues later today the school will be closed to all pupils. Thank you for your cooperation

Last Updated: 07:09AM 18/01/13

St Christopher's School, Wrexham - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Unfortunately, due to the adverse weather it has been necessary to close the school for today. Closed today for all pupils and staff. Thank you all for your assistance and support - Maxine Pittaway Headteacher,

Last Updated: 07:27AM 18/01/13

St Josephs Catholic & Anglican High Sch, Wrexham - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The school is closed today, Friday 18th January. Our decision is based on the Met.Office forecast of adverse weather, including blizzard conditions. Our school’s priority is young people’s safety. The school is fully closed and so no pupil should attempt to travel to school, even if their individual journey seems straightforward. We have sent all parents and carers a letter and advised each Year Group about work they can undertake, and we thank you for your support in this. Please refer to our letter home for details about how you can further monitor the situation over the weekend. Thank you so much for your support and understanding as Parents and Carers.

Last Updated: 06:50AM 18/01/13

St Mary's Catholic Primary, Wrexham - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: It seemed advisable due to the forecast and the distance pupils travel to make an early decision to close.

Last Updated: 07:22AM 18/01/13

Ymlaen / Dodds Lane, Gwersyllt - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: Due to the snow and difficulties with transport we have decided to close the Centre. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Last Updated: 09:38AM 18/01/13 

 

24 Wrexham schools remain open today.

School closures at 9am ...

Latest list of school closures in Denbighshire, updated at 9am by the county council, is:

Updated at 9am.
Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen
Ysgol Bryn Collen, Llangollen
Ysgol Pentrecelyn

Ysgol Brynhyfryd (to open to exam students and teachers only)
Ysgol Gymraeg y Gwernant, Llangollen
Ysgol Pendref, Denbigh
Ysgol Bro Famau (Llanarmon and Llanferres)
Ysgol Dyffryn Ial (Bryneglwys and Llandegla)
Ysgol Bro Dyfrdwy (Cynwyd and Llandrillo)
Project 10 & 11.

The following school buses are not operating (GHA Coaches)

Llansannan to Ysgol Glan Clwyd
Betws GG to Ysgol Brynhyfryd
Nantglyn to Denbigh High & Ysgol Glan Clwyd
Cerrig & Llanfihangel to Ysgol Brynhyfryd
Clawdd Poncen to Ysgol Brynhyfryd

A few centimetres and still falling ...

* Looking down Regent Street towards the lights at 8.40am today (Friday).

Llangollen was covered by a few centimetres of snow this morning, and the Met Office says there's more on the way during the course of the day.

If you have any nice snow pictures you would like to share with our band of readers, please send them to us at llanblogger@gmail.com

Two Llan schools closed today due to snow

Snow has started to fall across Denbighshire, with some disruptions to schools. As a result of the snow and freezing temperatures, the following schools have decided to close for the day: Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen.  Ysgol Bryn Collen, Llangollen.  The Council's Highways teams have been out and about gritting routes across the county out and continue to be out and about dealing with the wintry weather. For full details of the routes gritted, click on the linkGet winter weather advice, and updates on the current situation. In the meantime, the council is urging people to monitor the weather bulletins for the most up to date information. Further information will appear on here and on the council's Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Some Wrexham schools closed tomorrow

Ahead of tomorrow's predicted heavy snow, Wrexham Council has announced three of its schools - which may be attended by pupils from this area - will be either closed or partially closed tomorrow (Friday):

Ysgol Rhiwabon High School, Ruabon - Partially Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Insufficient staff cover
• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The school will be closed on Friday January 18th 2013 to all students and staff due to the risk of severe weather and the potential travel disruption. This decision has been taken under advice from the Met office and travel organisations and is to ensure the safety of our students and staff, many of whom travel some distance. The school will be open for those students who have an external English Literature and Maths exam. tomorrow. The school anticipates being open on Monday as normal but please check the Wrexham Council and school website for further updates over the weekend. Thank you all for your assistance and support Alun Harding Headteacher

Last Updated: 03:32PM 17/01/13

St Christopher's School, Wrexham - Closed

Further Information: In view of the high possibility that the weather tomorrow will be extremely poor I have no alternative than on Health and Safety grounds to close St Christopher’s. As you are aware many of our students and staff live along way from school. I can not guarantee tomorrow that taxies, buses etc will be able to get to school safely. As it has already started to snow this afternoon I have no alternative than to close the school tomorrow. I am extremely sorry to have to close the school but the weather predictions for tomorrow are grave for this area. Yours sincerely Maxine Pittaway Head Teacher

Last Updated: 03:09PM 17/01/13

St Josephs Catholic & Anglican High Sch, Wrexham - Closed

The school is closed for the following reason(s):

• Complications as a result of inclement weather

Further Information: The school is closed fully tomorrow, Friday 18th January. Our decision is based on the Met.Office forecast of adverse weather, including blizzard conditions. Our school’s priority is young people’s safety. The school is fully closed and so no pupil should attempt to travel to school, even if their individual journey seems straightforward. We have sent all parents and carers a letter and advised each Year Group about work they can undertake, and we thank you for your support in this. Please refer to our letter home for details about how you can further monitor the situation over the weekend. Thank you so much for your support and understanding as Parents and Carers

Last Updated: 03:48PM 17/01/13

Currently, 31 Wrexham schools are set to open tomorrow.

For more information, see the Wrexham Council website at http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/education/school_status.cfm

Snow - the opening event ...

* The canal towpath was already under a light covering of snow this afternoon (Thursday).

The heavy stuff isn't officially due to get here until the early hours of tomorrow (Friday) morning, but light snow has been falling on Llangollen for most of the today.

This left a number of places with a light covering, including the canal towpath.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning and emergency services and other agencies are warning people to take care especially when travelling on the roads. 

Visitors get their teeth into new campaign

 

* Food, glorious food ... Carole Startin (right) with Tansy Rogerson.
 

The Hamper Llangollen food festival and a host of award-winning Denbighshire producers are to star in a campaign to transform North Wales into a foodie heaven for visitors.

 

The aim is to give tourists a taste for the area so they have an appetite to come back again - and again.

 

It's all part of the drive by Tourism Partnership North Wales to make the region a top five UK destination for visitors.

 

The renown of Welsh lamb has already travelled far and wide with the likes of American President Barack Obama and the Pope tucking in.

 

But organisers say the Food North Wales campaign is about more than just lamb, beef and pork.

 

Apart from the award-winning butchers there are bakers and brewers, buffalo herders and bee-keepers, fudge, paté and cheesemakers, and even a purveyor of garlic products.

 

They will be showcased on the new Food North Wales website that's being hailed as a gateway to gastronomic delight.

 

The campaign was launched at the Bodnant Welsh Food Centre in the Conwy Valley.

 

Carole Startin, Marketing and Events Executive with Tourism Partnership North Wales, explained: "Food North Wales is all about bringing together for the consumer under one umbrella.

 

"We have wonderful food and drink that’s produced locally. As well as our marvellous meat, there are our fantastic vegetables and heavenly bread, exquisite liqueurs and fine ales - they are part of the wonderful taste of North Wales.

 

"The website will also include information about where to eat and drink and the latest news stories about the fine food available in North Wales.

 

"We are what we eat and food is an integral part of our identity, it helps embed our unique sense of place.

 

"It therefore makes perfect sense for the food sector and the tourism industry to work more closely together than ever to make it easier for the tourist to find some quality food and drink while they’re here on holiday in Wales - and also help with their research before they come."

 

"As a perfect complement to our fine produce and truly exceptional restaurants, we have some fantastic food festivals across North Wales such as Conwy Feast, Mold Food and Drink Festival, Hamper Llangollen and the 700-year-old Conwy Honey Fair.

 

"We also have the newly established Clwydian Range Food Trail and we'd like to see more trails like this developed."

 

It was a sentiment echoed by Tansy Rogerson, the Marketing Manager of the £6.5 million Bodnant Welsh Food Centre that was officially opened by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall last summer.

 

Ms Rogerson said: "We’ve got so many fantastic artisan producers on our doorstep as well as nationally in Wales that we need to shout about them.

 

"The purpose of this campaign is to tell people outside Wales about the fantastic food on offer and to signpost them to where they can find it.

 

"Increasingly people want to know where their food comes from and we have 100 per cent traceability with our meat.

 

"By supporting local producers, we are keeping the economy going as well as keeping and creating jobs in rural North Wales."

 

Dewi Davies, the Regional Strategy Director of Tourism Partnership North Wales, is a passionate advocate of the economic benefits of promoting the food sector.

 

He said: "Our vision is to make North Wales a top five UK visitor destination and our strategy is geared up to achieve this goal.

 

"To be successful we have to provide brilliant visitor experiences and food is a central part of these experiences.

 

"There were already a number of good food initiatives in different corners of North Wales but we felt it was important to have an all-encompassing campaign highlighting all the great food stories that we have across the whole of the region.

 

"We have some fantastic producers - like Llaeth y Llan Village Dairy, Snowdonia Cheese, Patchwork Paté and Halen Môn - and we need to make information about them available in an interesting way to our visitors.

 

"As part of the campaign, we will identify those places where you can actually buy all this wonderful food - whether it is the Blas ar Fwyd delicatessen in Llanrwst, Edwards the butcher in Conwy, the Bison Grill at the Rhug estate, Hawarden Farm Shop or indeed Bodnant Welsh Food where the launch is taking place.

 

"All this fantastic food gives people another reason to come to North Wales, another reason to dwell - and another reason to make a return visit."

 

For more information go to www.foodnorthwales.co.uk

Police advice on safer winter motoring

North Wales Police has come up with the following advice for staying safe on the road this winter:

BEFORE YOU SET OFF

Is your vehicle winter ready?

Regularly servicing, and checking your vehicle is in good running order before setting out will reduce your chances of breaking down on the road. It's worth making these checks regularly - and particularly before a long winter journey:

• Is the battery fully charged? Replace it if it's not completely reliable.
• Are your lights clean and all working. Carry spare bulbs.
• Change your windscreen wiper blades if they are worn
• Check your fluid levels, screen wash, engine oil, anti-freeze in radiator
  Use a higher concentration of screen wash to prevent freezing
• Check all windows are clean
• Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and replace them before the tread has reached the legal minimum. Check your tyre pressures (refer to the owners handbook) & tread depth (min 1.6mm)
• Consider booking your car into a reputable garage for a winter service for extra peace of mind.

Check your emergency kit is complete

Just gather together the items below and pack in the car at the start of the winter season. You never know when you might need them.
Your emergency kit should include:

• Ice scraper, de-icer and dry cloths
• Torch and spare batteries - or a wind-up torch
• Warm clothes and blankets - for you and any passengers
• Waterproof boots
• First aid kit
• Jump leads
• A shovel
• Piece of old carpet. Grit based cat litter is also useful and convenient to carry
• Road atlas
• Sunglasses (for low winter sun and the glare off snow which can be dazzling)
• High visiblity vest
• Warning triangle

SETTING OFF

If the weather is bad police advise you not to travel if you can possibly avoid it.

However if the journey is unavoidable, there are a few things you should do before each journey in severe weather.

• Check your emergency kit.
• Check tyres.
• Check lights and wipers.
• Clean windscreen, windows and mirrors.
• Clear any snow off the roof of the vehicle before you drive away.
• Clear any snow and ice from all windows, lights and number plates. Make sure you can see clearly and be seen.
• Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged - but don't use while driving.
• Take some food and a warm drink in a flask in case you get stuck.
• Don't forget to take any personal medication too!

Driving through ice and snow

If you find yourself out and about in severe weather conditions:

• Make sure the windscreen, back and side windows are thoroughly de-iced on the outside and clear on the inside before setting off. Don’t simply clear a ‘porthole’ to look through.
• Lower your speed in poor visibility and poor driving conditions. It’s better to drive slowly and smoothly to avoid braking sharply.
• Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin, without increasing your speed.
• Select 2nd gear when pulling away, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel spin.
• Brake gently to avoid locking the wheels. Get into a low gear earlier than normal and allow the speed of the vehicle to fall gradually.
• Maintain at least a 10 second gap between you and the vehicle in front. It takes 10 times further to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road.
• Use headlights whenever visibility is reduced – for example, early morning, at dusk, when it's raining or in any gloomy conditions.
• Don't dazzle others with your main beam.
• When driving downhill, choose second or third gear to prevent skidding.
• Take corners very slowly and steer gently and steadily, rather than with jerky movements, to avoid skidding.
• Never brake if the vehicle skids. Instead, ease off the accelerator and steer slightly into the direction of the skid until you gain control.
• If you do get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels to give the tyres some grip. Once on the move again, try not to stop until you reach firmer ground.
• If your vehicle breaks down, pull off the road as far as possible and switch on the hazard warning lights.

WARNING!

      . Look out for winter service vehicles spreading salt or using snow ploughs.

• Maintain a safe distance behind salting vehicles. They have flashing amber beacons and travel at slower speeds – around 40mph.
• Do not overtake unless it is indicated as safe to do so – there may be uncleared snow on the road ahead.