Aberdeenshire Council responded to a number of weather-related issues yesterday.

The Roads teams were out from early morning clearing and treating roads. There were 15 reported incidents of trees blocking roads across Aberdeenshire between 5.30am and 7.50am and numerous more during the day. I also spoke to local residents who contributed to the clear up operations in their own, more rural areas.

Gritters were out treating priority routes yesterday morning and again last night. Residents are advised to check Police Scotland and Transport Scotland social media feeds for up to date information on travel conditions.

Despite the weather, over 160 schools remained open with just 19 schools closing to everyone. A further 12 schools were affected by transport problems and pupils who couldn’t make it to school were asked to log on to Glow (the school intranet system)where work was provided for them. I know for some even this was not an option yesterday as many homes were without power. Reminiscing my own pre-internet school days – a day off because of bad weather really was a day off!

Finally, today is International Volunteer day and in that spirit Aberdeenshire Council is asking people to check on any elderly or vulnerable neighbours during this cold spell.