Disruption across region as snow and ice descend

SEVERAL events scheduled to take place across the North East at the weekend were called off after snow, ice and wind warnings.

- CATHERINE ADDISON-SWAN

Sporting events including football and rugby matches were postponed, and dozens of Parkrun events were called off. Markets scheduled to be held at the weekend also did not take place due to safety fears over strong winds, icy conditions and freezing temperatures, while some attractions also closed their doors.

There were fresh snowy scenes across parts of the North East yesterday.

A Met Office snow and ice warning was in force until yesterday afternoon, with forecasters advising of potential disruption to road, rail and air travel. It concluded a disruptive week of weather for the UK, with Storm Goretti bringing winds of almost 100mph to parts of the country and sparking a rare red warning for highly dangerous conditions. Tens of thousands of homes were left without power in parts of southwest England and Wales last week.