HEAVY snowfall caused huge disruptions across Purbeck, leaving many country lanes impassable and closing a host of services.

Pupils had good reason to cheer, yesterday (Dec 2), as the majority of the district's schools closed after up to three inches of snow fell.

One of the few schools to remain open was Sandford Middle School.

Headteacher Robert Graham said: "We didn't get all of our staff in and certainly not all of our pupils, but we thought it was important to offer at least a skeleton service if we were able.

"The children who live close enough and were able to get in have had lessons and they are now playing in the snow."

Around 50 pupils, out of 300, managed to make it in.

One parent commented: "I would like to thank the headteacher and dedicated staff who have been able to get to work and, in turn, allowed parents to get to work if they need to. In my opinion that is a valuable contribution to the local economy.

"It also gives a positive message to the pupils - that work can still continue in these conditions."

Two tank transporters were among the vehicles trapped on the Clouds Hill to Gallows Hill road, close to Bovington, Thursday morning. Police closed the road after describing it as "impassable and treacherous."

Sheet ice in the area caused a number of minor collisions and several vehicles were abandoned.

Purbeck District Council suspended all refuse and recycling collections, but officials asked residents to leave their refuse out as services would restart as soon as possible. Unless it has thawed overnight, refuse collections will also be cancelled today.