The snow returned with a vengeance to wreak havoc across West Yorkshire this weekend.
Schools were closed, flights delayed, journeys disrupted and events cancelled as wintry conditions took an all too familiar, icy grip on the region.
And there will be no let up just yet, with the weather experts warning us this could well be the coldest March in 50 years.
With snow and ice expected to continue through today and temperatures dropping below zero, a pre-emptive decision was taken to call off a number of events.
They included last night’s Super League clash between Wakefield and Leeds Rhinos, which was postponed until Sunday afternoon, kicking off at 3.30pm.
Age UK’s Harewood House Wrap Up and Run 10k event, scheduled for 10am this Sunday has also been postponed.
Paul Farthing, director of fundraising at Age UK, said: “We are really disappointed to have to cancel this weekend’s event, however the safety of participants is absolutely paramount.
We are aiming to reschedule the race for next month.”
The British Heart Foundation Heart Walk in Leeds, scheduled to take place today, has also been postponed. The Epilepsy Action Bradford 10k, due to take place on Sunday was another victim of the weather.
Katie Stocks, fundraising events officer at Yeadon-based Epilepsy Action, said: “After monitoring the weather closely, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this event.”
And all sports pitches managed by the council have also been taken out of action this weekend.
Snow also disrupted up to 20,000 bin collections across Kirklees and passengers travelling from Leeds Bradford Airport were advised to check the status of flights before arriving.
The conditions are in stark contrast to last year, when landmarks such as the Otley Chevin Cross were bathed in glorious sunshine. Experts said the average temperature expected at this time of year is 6C, but so far this month the average is 3.8C.
More snow is predicted for today while Sunday is expected to be dry and bright.
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