by Alan Quick

THE first significant snowfall in the Crediton area for many years was greeted with joy by some, but despair by others.

And with more snow and freezing rain forecast overnight, there is much more to come.

Many roads in the Crediton area are currently only just passable with care, most motorists taking heed of advice that only drive if it is essential.

Most businesses closed early and Crediton High Street was deserted for much of the afternoon.

Great fun was enjoyed by children sledging in Newcombes Meadow and other parts of Crediton.

One of those who welcomed the snow was Jacob Rennie, of Crediton, who was not only enjoying sledging but also celebrating the fact that his school was closed, resulting in a day off, and all on his 10th birthday.

CANCELLED

The snow has resulted in the cancellation of this weekend’s Crediton Farmers’ Market and Queen Elizabeth’s School has announced it will also be closed tomorrow, Friday.

RED WARNING

The Met Office issued a red warning for heavy snow across most of the county today, which resulted in treacherous travelling conditions for many. Devon County Council is advising people not to drive this evening and overnight.

Conditions are said to be deteriorating as the evening progresses.

Up to 30cm of snow is forecast to fall this evening, with the potential of up to 50cm on high ground at Dartmoor and Exmoor and forecasts of freezing rain tonight will make roads hazardous.

Devon County Council said all main salting routes have been treated and Devon’s fleet of gritters have been out, many with snow ploughs attempting to clear routes.

The County Council is working with partner agencies, and together with Devon and Cornwall Police and Highways England, the Haldon/Telegraph Hill forward control point has been manned with additional resources since this morning.

SNOW DRIFTS

The County Council’s Highway Operations Control Centre has received calls of snow drifting on several routes on Exmoor and the South Hams, including the A39 at Parracombe, A399 at Blackmore Gate, as well as roads into Thurlestone, East Allington and Bigbury.

Telegraph Hill near Exeter was closed at 2pm.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “We’re forecast to get unprecedented levels of snow and because of that we’re having to take this preventative measure to ensure people do not get stranded on Telegraph Hill.

"All of Devon County Council’s highways resources are being deployed with this snow event and snowfall is steadily increasing. Our priority is to keep the main road network moving as best we can, so we won’t have the resources to be able clear any minor routes.

“Public safety is of paramount importance and we hope that people heed the warnings we’re receiving from the Met Office. Please be aware that you could be putting your life at risk if you travel during the hours of darkness.”

ADVICE

Devon County Council is reminding people of the following advice:• Avoid overnight travel as roads are expected to be hazardous this evening with less traffic, colder temperatures and freezing rain;• If you have vulnerable or elderly neighbours, think about how they could possibly be helped through the cold spell;• Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long-term illness or are 65 or over. The NHS Choices website has more information on staying healthy during cold weather;• Listen to local radio for updates on current weather conditions and ensure you are stocked with food and medications• Check out any school closures and sign up for alerts for any school by clicking on "Alert Me".

Rail and bus services were cancelled across the county this afternoon.

Owners with 4x4 vehicles and tractor owners have been helping local doctor sugeries by taking medical staff to patients in their own homes.For more information and travel advice from Devon County Council visit: www.devon.gov.uk/winter_travel or for updates on Twitter follow @DevonAlert .