HAMPSHIRE County Council leader Cllr Roy Perry has praised the efforts of staff and partners, including farmers, who are working around the clock to keep people safe, roads open and essential services running during the snow.

He said: “During the coldest weather Hampshire has endured for many years, our staff are working tirelessly to ensure essential services are delivered, while our round-the-clock operations on the roads have supported stranded motorists and kept as many roads clear as possible.

“After battling throughout the night, all ‘Priority 1’ routes were open this morning (March2).

“We are continuing our 24/7 operation, working closely with our partners, including more than 100 volunteer farmers with snow ploughs, who are to be applauded for their sterling work in helping with our recovery efforts, together with the many volunteer drivers of four wheel drive vehicles who came to the aid of over 300 calls for assistance.

“I must also thank our district council colleagues who have been helping to keep footpaths, and town and village centres gritted and clear of snow.

“Our continuing message to Hampshire residents is to only travel if it is essential and please continue to check on vulnerable family, neighbours and friends.

“We are ready to do all we possibly can to help keep motorists safe, the roads passable, and vulnerable residents secure.”

If anyone is worried about an elderly neighbour or relative, they should call Hampshire County Council’s Adults’ Health and Care team on 0300 555 1386, during the week in working hours, (8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 4.30pm Friday) or call 0300 555 1373 out of hours and on weekends and Bank Holidays.

In the light of continued bad weather, Veolia, who manage the Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) contract for the council, took the decision to close all of HWRCs, from 1pm today, Friday 2 March for safety reasons. For up to date information on HWRCs, please visit the website, www.hants.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling/recyclingcentres

For more information on local bin collections visit the webpage, www.gov.uk/find-local-council

For the latest on roads affected by bad weather, follow @hantshighways on Twitter.