Two couples from Ripon were caught up in unexpected drama yesterday when a tree fell under the weight of snow.

Nicole Bond and her partner Ben Crewe were walking near College Lawns, just off Palace Road, yesterday lunchtime when they heard a cracking noise.

Assuming it was pallets being broken up on the nearby business park, they thought nothing of it – but seconds later realised what was happening. Nicole said:

“Ben looked up and shouted ‘run!’. I froze, but he ran out of the way. Luckily, I was right by where the tree fell, but I didn’t have to move.

“There was a couple that didn’t have time to move. As the tree was falling, there was a massive plume of snow that came up and covered everybody.”

As soon as the snow settled again, Nicole realised how big the tree was – and the damage it could have done.

“I thought the worst had happened. We were screaming, ‘are you OK? Are you hurt?’ Ben went into complete action mode and started pulling branches to get to them and I called for an ambulance.”

The huge tree fell under the weight of snow in Ripon. Photo: Nicole Bond

Very quickly, Ben managed to reach the couple. The woman was shaken but didn’t seem badly hurt, but her husband had a head injury that was bleeding.

Ben and Nicole used their clothes to apply pressure and stop the bleeding, following instructions from the call handlers on the phone.

They were warned that, thanks to the road conditions, it could take 40 minutes for an ambulance to arrive – but it only took around five minutes before paramedics were on the scene. They treated the injured couple before taking them to hospital for further assessment.

Read more:

• LIVE: More snow forecast for Harrogate district tonight
• Covid vaccinations postponed after snow

Nicole has since been contacted by the woman to say they are both recovering, her husband having been treated for concussion, and to thank her and Ben for their help on the scene.

It was only chance they were all in the wrong place at the wrong time: Nicole and Ben took a different route for their usual dog walk because of flooding. Having spent the morning helping drivers make their way along snowy roads near home, they had just paused to take a video of the road conditions in the area – and a few seconds more or less could have made all the difference to how the incident played out.

Nicole added:

“It’s just crazy. It was all over within 10 minutes, including the ambulance getting there. We barely even had time to think at all.

“I was quite glad I took Ben out for a walk with me, and for the ambulance staff keeping everybody calm. It could have been a lot worse.”

The fallen tree in Ripon has already been broken up and made safe. Photo: Nicole Bond

Covid vaccinations due to be given at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate tomorrow will be rescheduled because of the weather.

North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is rescheduling all its Saturday appointments because of lying snow, freezing conditions and further snowfall expected.

Instead, all appointments will be moved to the same time on Sunday, at the same venue.

GP practices, which are rolling out the vaccine to patients across the Harrogate district, are today contacting all those who have appointments to advise them of the changes.

A spokesperson for the CCG said the changes were being made to ensure the safety of those attending:

“Snow is forecast for the Harrogate district through the early hours of tomorrow morning. The majority of people who’d been invited to have their COVID jab tomorrow are elderly and many will be frail.”

The Met Office has issued another weather warning for snow overnight on Friday and into Saturday morning. It warns of a chance of travel disruption, with vehicles likely to become stranded, as well as the risk of slips on icy services.

Read more:

• Nidderdale minibus helps rural people get vaccines at showground
• LIVE: More snow forecast for Harrogate district tonight

Ahead of another night of snow forecast for this evening, we asked our readers to photograph what they could see from their doorsteps.

We had people sending images from across the Harrogate district, here are some of the highlights.

In Harrogate and Beckwithshaw …

Mark Pallant captured the Stray just before dawn today.

Sylvia Skipper sent us this photo from Beckwithshaw.

The snow was still think outside of Martin’s house this morning. Photograph: @FIRSTmarty on twitter.

Elsewhere in Harrogate, Patrick Dunlop captured this image of the snow settled on rooftops.

There was still plenty of snow on Harrogate stray this morning.

On another part of the Stray people were enjoying a walk in the wintry conditions. Photograph: Victoria Purdy

Another photo of Harrogate Stray was sent to us by Megan Hatfield.

Andy Flockhart sent us this picture from Church Avenue in Bilton.

In Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale …

Joyce Liggins sent us this photo overlooking Pateley Bridge this morning.

Greta Knight sent us this image of the Nidderdale Greenway near Bilton today.

Susan Wrightson took this from the viaduct over the river nidd along the greenway.

Menwith Hill just outside of Darley still had plenty of snow today. Photograph: Sue Barlow

Elsewhere in the district …

Alison Fitzpatrick took this photograph in Summerbridge today.

These were the views from Charli Walker’s garden in Stainburn today.

Hannah Inglis captured this in High Birstwith this morning.

The Met Office has put a yellow warning for snow and ice in place from midnight tonight until Saturday evening meaning the Harrogate district could see snow once again.

Yesterday’s snow is continuing to make travel and opening schools difficult today with many of the district’s roads still covered in ice.

North Yorkshire County Council pounded the roads with gritters overnight but insists icy conditions cannot be avoided and people should only travel if essential.

Keep refreshing this live blog for updates throughout the day for school closures and road conditions.

4pm – Road closure to fix water problems in Harrogate

Yorkshire Water is planning to close Crescent Road in Harrogate to fix a burst main.

Resident in the HG1 area of town have had issues with water for most of the day as a result of the burst.

The water company expects to fix the problem by late afternoon.

#CrescentRoad #HG1 #Harrogate

Sorry to all our customers that are experiencing issues with their water due to a burst main. We are presently awaiting for traffic management to arrive before we can continue further with repairs, and will update as we receive further information. pic.twitter.com/8Su3HXJ6lb

— Yorkshire Water Help (@YWHelp) January 15, 2021

3.30pm – Harrogate council suspends waste and recycling collections

Harrogate Borough Council has suspended its waste and recycling collections for today and tomorrow.

In a tweet, the authority said:

“Where we can, we will do our best to collect any outstanding household waste next week.

“Unfortunately, any outstanding recycling won’t be collected until the next scheduled recycling collection date.”

Use bags and cardboard boxes to store any additional recycling you may have as a result of the delays.

2.30pm – Covid vaccines rescheduled due to the snow

Covid vaccinations due to be given at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate tomorrow will be rescheduled because of the weather.

The snowfall forecast for tonight is forcing North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to reschedule all its appointments for the same time on Sunday.

12.43pm – Harrogate Town match postponed

The team’s fixture against Exeter City was due to kick off tomorrow at 3pm. Following a pitch inspection by an ERL referee today it has had to be postponed.

Harrogate Town has said the pitch is currently under heavy snow and with tomorrow’s forecast looking to get worse the decision has been made to postpone the game.

❌ | Tomorrow's @SkyBetLeagueTwo fixture against @OfficialECFC has been postponed following a pitch inspection

Due to the recent snowfall, it has been decided the pitch will not be playable by 3pm Saturday#ProudToBeTown

— Harrogate Town AFC (@HarrogateTown) January 15, 2021

12.14pm – Knaresborough 1B bus returns to full route 

The Harrogate Bus Company is now able to run its full route between Harrogate, Knaresborough Bus station and Eastfield.

To find out if your local service is running check the Transdev app.

Good news! 1B is now able to run it's full route between Harrogate, Knaresborough Bus station and Eastfield

Thank you for your patience during this time, keep up to date through our app Transdev Go here https://t.co/PxPTgD0hZI pic.twitter.com/jc0HBEJ3sz

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 15, 2021

12.04pm – Harlow Carr remains closed tomorrow

RHS Harlow Carr and its garden centre will remain closed tomorrow due to the snow forecast overnight.

Unfortunately due to continued heavy snowfall and icy conditions, RHS Garden Harlow Carr and Garden Centre will remain closed on Sat 16th January.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused. If you have paid for tickets, please contact harlowcarr@rhs.org.uk to arrange a refund. pic.twitter.com/hYrds63E5s

— RHS Harlow Carr (@RHSHarlowCarr) January 15, 2021

11.46am – A59 is open but police warn of black ice

North Yorkshire Police Traffic Bureau has answered local enquiries about the conditions on the A59. It says it is open and passable but warns drivers to take care of the black ice.

The force is once again insisting it is only to be used for essential travel.

*WEATHER UPDATE*We are receiving enquires regarding the road conditions around #Craven area#A59 is open and the road is passable with care. Due to low temp (-6)there is black ice in places so drive carefully & leave space from the vehicle in front.

Only travel if essential. pic.twitter.com/zOFtgFR3Ja

— N Yorks Police Traffic Bureau & Road Safety Team (@NYTrafficBureau) January 15, 2021

11.26am – Met Office warns of more snow tonight

The Met Office has put a yellow warning in place for snow and ice overnight. The warning is in place from midnight until 6pm tomorrow.

The Harrogate district has been covered by this warning, meaning a band of “heavy snow” could return tonight.

The Met Office warning covers the district. Photograph: Met Office

11.01am – A59 near Harrogate ‘slippery in places but passable’

North Yorkshire Police Traffic Bureau has said the A59 section near Harrogate is passable but still icy and slippery.

The police force have encouraged people to only travel if essential whilst the wintery conditions last.

A59 between Harrogate & Skipton is icy and slippery in places but passable. Lots of snow on higher ground.

A56 Broughton into Lancashire is clear and not much snow & ice.

— N Yorks Police Traffic Bureau & Road Safety Team (@NYTrafficBureau) January 15, 2021

10.57am – London to Harrogate trains cancelled 

Signalling failures around Harrogate are continuing to cause mayhem for scheduled trains. LNER has released a list of those trains disrupted.

https://twitter.com/LNER/status/1350027023176101888

10.54am – Harrogate HELP reminds people it is there for them whilst stuck indoors

Harrogate HELP has reminded people, via its twitter, that whether its the snow or coronavirus restrictions keeping you indoors it is there to help.

The charity has said the snow is heightening anxiety for some people and it wants to offer them support.

Whilst this snow is picturesque, it's also adding to anxiety for some local residents struggling whilst having to stay at home. A reminder that we're here for you on both a practical & emotional level at this difficult time.#Harrogate #Ripon #HereToHelp pic.twitter.com/4LFDvaTHvk

— HELP charity #HereToHELP (@HELP_Harrogate) January 15, 2021

10.42am – Updated School closures 

A number of schools have already announced they will remain closed to all today, including the children of key workers, as a result of the snow.

All have said the road conditions make it unsuitable to open.

• Admiral C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• All Saints C of E Primary School, Kirkby Overblow
• Beckwithshaw Primary School
• Bilton Grange Primary School, Harrogate
• Birstwith C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Boroughbridge Primary School
• Dacre Braithwaite C of E Primary School, Summerbridge
• Darley Community Primary School, Harrogate
• Dishforth C of E Primary School
• Dishforth Airfield Primary School
• Follifoot C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Fountains C of E Primary School, Ripon
• Grewelthorpe C of E Primary School, Ripon
• Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary School, Harrogate
• Killinghall C of E Primary School
• Markington C of E Primary School
• Nidderdale High School
• North Rigton C of E Primary School
• Oatlands Infant School, Harrogate
• Oatlands Junior School, Harrogate
• Pannal Primary School
• Richard Taylor C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Ripley Endowed Primary School, Harrogate
• Roecliffe C of E Primary School, Boroughbridge
• Rossett Acre Primary School, Harrogate
• Saltergate Infant School, Harrogate
• Saltergate Junior School, Harrogate
• Spofforth C of E Primary School
• Springwater School, Starbeck
• St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Harrogate
• St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Knaresborough
• St Nicholas C of E Primary School, West Tanfield
• St Peter’s C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Scotton Lingerfield Primary School
• Summerbridge Community Primary School
• The Forest School, Knaresborough

10.40am – Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal to stay closed through tomorrow 

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal has announced it will close tomorrow due to the weather.

It said customers who have booked to visit the grounds will receive an email.

Due to the ongoing snowy and icy weather, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal – including the deer park – will be closed tomorrow, Saturday 16 January. If you have booked to visit, you will receive a cancellation email shortly. Please check the website for further updates.

— Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, National Trust (@fountainsabbey) January 15, 2021

10.08am – Harrogate and Ripon recycling centres close

North Yorkshire County Council has closed recycling centres in Harrogate and Ripon today due to the snow.

⚠️Household waste recycling centres.⚠️#Harrogate, #Leyburn, #Ripon, West Harrogate, #Catterick Bridge, #Skipton, #Leeming Bar and #Northallerton household waste recycling centres are closed.

Other sites are open, but please only use them if essential. pic.twitter.com/AHmmd8uJD8

— North Yorkshire Council (@northyorksc) January 15, 2021

10.01am – Faulty signalling in Harrogate causes delays to LNER services

A signalling fault in Harrogate is causing delays to the LNER services. The train operator has said trains may be delayed by up to 45 minutes, cancelled or revised.

LNER has also said its services are not running between Leeds and Harrogate. The operator has told commuters to use Northern services instead.

https://twitter.com/LNER/status/1350002497553883136

09.54am – Harrogate College closed today

Students will be working online today as Harrogate College closes for the second day in a row.

College will be closed again today. Online learning will continue as normal.

— Harrogate College (@HarrogateColl) January 15, 2021

09.48am – Harrogate book shop suspends click and collect

Imagined Things Bookshop has said it will be suspending its click and collect service today due to the snow. It hopes, if the weather improves, to bring it back tomorrow.

Our apologies, we’ll be CLOSED for Click&Collect today. Weather permitting, we will be back for Click&Collect tomorrow from 10am-2pm. If you need to get in touch please email us at books@imaginedthings.co.uk pic.twitter.com/8mYeFKl9bV

— Imagined Things Bookshop (@ImaginedThings) January 15, 2021

09.22am – Recycling bins won’t be collected today

Harrogate Borough Council has responded to a resident’s tweet to say recycling won’t be collected today due to the snow. The council has said recycling with be collected on your next collection date.

Hi Matt. Unfortunately, after assessing conditions this morning, rounds have been stood down. We will collect any additional recycling on your next scheduled recycling collection. Sorry for the delay. ^James

— Harrogate Borough Council (@Harrogatebc) January 15, 2021

08.42am – Harrogate buses run with a limited service

The Harrogate Bus Company has updated its twitter to explain the routes that are able to continue today. Some have had to be limited due to the snow.

https://twitter.com/harrogatebus/status/1349999540879958019

08.32am – County Council says avoid travel 

North Yorkshire County Council has used its twitter to plead with people against travelling today and over the weekend.

Yellow weather warnings are in place for tomorrow too, meaning road conditions could become dangerous once again.

https://twitter.com/northyorkscc/status/1349997278707261442

08.19am – Local police officer warns against using travel

A North Yorkshire police officer has used his twitter this morning to urge local residents to only travel if essential. The district’s roads remain icy.

https://twitter.com/TC174_NYP/status/1349992880505556993

08.09am – Yorkshire Water updates residents on burst pipe

Yorkshire Water has said, via twitter, that the burst pipe has been located on Crescent Road in Harrogate but has warned repairs could take longer than normal due to the weather.

The repair team are yet to arrive, keep an eye on their twitter for further updates.

We have located the burst in #HG1 on #CrescentRoad this morning. Further updates to follow, once the repair team arrive on site. Due to weather conditions this morning, this may take slightly longer than usual. Thanks for your patience. pic.twitter.com/ySDK6ww2UX

— Yorkshire Water Help (@YWHelp) January 15, 2021

08.07am – Harrogate High School to open

Harrogate High School has let its pupils know it will remain open today. It has encouraged those who get a lift into school to study from home today, if possible, and avoid the icy roads.

HHS is open today, but would advise any student that gets a lift to school, to work from home today, where possible, given the icy conditions on the roads.
Please take care.
Mrs Clarke

— HarrogateHighSchool (@HarrogateHigh) January 15, 2021

08.02am – Western Primary School to open later today

Western Primary School in Harrogate posted on its twitter this morning to say the school plans to open at 10am today.

It says it is to give staff and pupils more time to travel. Its turquoise nursery, for 2 year olds, will remain closed.

Parents who feel it is not safe to travel with their child today can call the school and use online learning instead.

We will be open today but not until 10am.
Please note the following:
School will not be open for 2-year-old provision (Turquoise nursery)
School will not be open to pupils until 10.00 a.m. in order to give staff, parents and pupils more time to make their journey safely
Cont…

— Western Primary School (@PrimaryWestern) January 15, 2021

07.58am – Burst water pipe on Crescent Road, Harrogate

Yorkshire Water has said it is investigating reports of a loss of water and low water pressure in Harrogate on its twitter this morning.

The water provider responded to a resident’s comment to say a pipe had burst on Crescent Road and the repair team were on their way.

We are aware some customers may have no water or low pressure this morning in the #HG1 area. We are currently investigating this, further updates to follow. Many Thanks

— Yorkshire Water Help (@YWHelp) January 15, 2021

07.50am – Henshaws College to close

Henshaws announced on its twitter today that it has had to close the specialist college due to the snow.

We can report that the weather in #Harrogate is only slightly better than the blizzard we experienced last Friday! As you can see, the levels of snow were unprecedented, and we had no choice but to shut @HenshawsCollege for the day to ensure safety for all. #SnowDay2021 pic.twitter.com/J7AOVseRbk

— Henshaws (@Henshaws) January 15, 2021

07.42am – Bus services limited due to road conditions

The Harrogate Bus Company has had to amend a number of its services due to road conditions making some areas inaccessible.

The number 1 bus is running between Harrogate and Knaresborough but will avoid the Knaresborough estates.

The 2A service to Harrogate to Bilton and Dene Park is continuing but cannot reach stops on Dene Park.

The 2B route from Harrogate to Bilton and New Park continues its normal route as far as Bachelor Gardens. Stops will be missed at The Knox and Skipton Road. Buses are using Crab Lane and Bilton Lane instead.

The 21 for Knaresborough, Minskip and Boroughbridge is still running but will not cover small villages this morning.

⚠️ Due to snow and ice, The 21 will run direct between Knaresborough, Minskip and Boroughbridge, we're currently unable to reach our stops in the villages. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. pic.twitter.com/q8OFFMApUw

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 15, 2021

To get up-to-date information check the Transdev app.

07.30am – Weather disrupts rail line

Train operator Northern has told commuters the service between Harrogate and Leeds faces disruption today due to weather conditions. Services have been reduced to one per hour in each direction this morning.

A tree fell on the line and the operator says essential works to the line continues.

https://twitter.com/northernassist/status/1349965598328033280

Temperatures are forecast to fall to minus 4 degrees centigrade tonight in the Harrogate district, leaving many minor roads and pavements treacherous tomorrow.

Snow is expected to turn to sleet this evening before drying out as temperatures plunge.

They are not forecast to rise above freezing at all tomorrow so ice is likely to persist even though gritters and snow ploughs have been out today.

A Met Office yellow warning for ice is in place until 10am tomorrow.

That might not be the end of the cold snap: a further yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued for Saturday, from 3am until 9pm.

Train operator Northern tonight warned of ongoing disruption affecting services between Harrogate and Leeds that will continue tomorrow.

No further services are running tonight and there will just be one per hour tomorrow morning.

Here’s how today’s weather affected the district.

7.05pm – Oatlands Infants School to stay closed tomorrow 

Zoe Anderson, the headteacher, has said the school will remain closed tomorrow due to the weather making travel unsafe.

4.50pm – Yorkshire Ambulance Service urge public to only call in a “serious or life-threatening emergency”

Yorkshire Ambulance Service has asked the public to only call in the event of a serious or life-threatening emergency as crews tackle snowy conditions.

Mark Millins, strategic commander at the trust, said:

“If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, they should call 999 immediately. For anyone with less serious illnesses and injuries, our NHS 111 service is available online at 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111.

“Please take extra care when out driving or walking and, where possible, avoid travelling at all in snowy or icy conditions. If you do have to go out, ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and warm clothing. Also, please stay in touch with elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours to ensure they are safe and well.”

4.30pm – Snow to continue into the evening

The Met Office has forecast snow for the Harrogate district into this evening until 9pm.

A yellow warning for ice remains in place for tonight into tomorrow morning. Temperatures in the district are expected to plummet to -4 degrees overnight.

The Met Office said rain, sleet and snow dying out will leave “a risk of icy surfaces and difficult travel conditions” tomorrow morning.

4.20pm – Young farmer helps stranded lorries near Pannal

A young farmer has come to the aid of stranded lorries to help them up the A658 near Pannal. Photographer Giles Rocholl shot this video:

3.10pm – Harrogate 36 bus back running

Harrogate Bus Company has tweeted that the 36 bus running to Leeds from Harrogate, as well as between Harrogate and Ripon, is back up and running.

❄️ #The36 is now back to running through to Leeds from Harrogate as normal, as well as between Harrogate and Ripon

Keep up to date with how all our buses are running here on Twitter, or on our website https://t.co/JWTWD3sxUI pic.twitter.com/ZUjnadzZPP

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 14, 2021

2.45pm – Home carers won’t let clients down

Care workers across the Harrogate district have been doing their utmost to keep to schedule today, despite the challenging conditions.

Staff at St Margaret’s Home Care are among those who have fought through the snow to ensure their clients got the help they needed.

One even had to abandon her car in Pannal, complete her round on foot and then walk home to Jennyfields.

Manager Vicky Clark sent us some photos and said:

“A day in the life of a carer! Our amazing care workers have done their best to get to our clients today, unfortunately getting stuck in the snow and having to abandon their cars and walk. Please could you say a massive well done to all care workers out there.”

Carers from St Margaret’s Home Care have battled through the snow today to help clients. Photos: Vicky Clark

2.10pm – Northern advises rail passengers not to travel

Northern has advised people not to try to use the rail line between Harrogate and Leeds.

Heavy snowfall and a fallen tree have led services to be cancelled on the route this afternoon. They are unlikely to be reinstated until at least 4pm. A spokesperson for Northern said:

“The adverse weather is having a significant impact on our ability to operate services, particularly in Yorkshire where heavy snow continues to fall.

“We are working closely with colleagues at Network Rail to get our services up and running as soon as possible. In the meantime, we’re asking customers not to travel on the specified routes until further notice.”

2.07pm – Jennyfield bus service suspended

The number 3 bus service in the Jennyfield area of Harrogate has been suspended because of the continuing snowfall.

❄️ Our buses on the 3 are temporarily paused due to heavy snow

Keep up to date with how all our buses are running here on Twitter, or on our website https://t.co/JWTWD3aX3a pic.twitter.com/vFMhuGl84J

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 14, 2021

Meanwhile, staff members from The Harrogate Bus Company are hard at work clearing paths around the town centre bus station. IN last week’s heavy snow, they were out on the roads helping to spread grit and keep traffic moving.

https://twitter.com/harrogatebus/status/1349717545008459777

2pm – Rail line still blocked

The fallen tree on the railway line between Leeds and Harrogate is expected to continue causing disruption until at least 4pm.

Train operator Northern reports one of its trains hit an object on the line between Headingley and Horsforth. Services are currently unable to run, with Network Rail en route to remove the tree.

https://twitter.com/northernassist/status/1349705276073635841?s=20

1.50pm – Essential food deliveries still getting through

Among those battling through the weather are people delivering essential food to vulnerable people across the district.

Sue Cawthray, of Harrogate Neighbours Housing Association, posted a photo take from a car as key workers continue to do their best for clients.

The Food Angels meals on wheels service has become a Snow Angels delivery for one day only, ensuring nobody who relies on it will go without the vital service.

Food Angels has become Snow Angels today. Photo: Sue Cawthray

1.37pm – Gritters on the roads

Road conditions are still poor around the district, by North Yorkshire County Council gritters continue to operate.

Harrogate and Pannal Ash Residents’ Association (HAPARA) spotted one making its way up Otley Road in Harrogate this afternoon.

Interesting on Otley Rd – especially uphill….

….but help on the way! pic.twitter.com/Xt5XYM4f5q

— HAPARA (@HaparaHgt) January 14, 2021

1.30pm – Bus stranded near Spofforth

A number 7 bus has got stuck in the snow as it tried to reach Harrogate from Wetherby.

The bus has become stranded as it attempted to come up the hill into Spofforth on the A661.

Photo by My Homecare

The Harrogate Bus Company has kept many of its services running today. The 24 to Pateley Bridge has been suspended, as has the 8 to Calcutt and Wetherby, and the Flyer A2 to Leeds-Bradford Airport.

The number 1 from Harrogate to Knaresborough is running, but missing out stops between Starbeck and Knaresborough as well as the Knaresborough estates. The 2A is missing out stops on Dene Park, while the 2B is missing stops between The Knox and Bar Chapel, using Crab Lane and Bilton Lane instead.

1.22pm – Businesses battle through snow

Local business owners across the district have been fighting on despite the weather and poor road conditions.

Regal Fruits on Kings Road reminded its customers and other locals that they can still get essentials from nearby, even in heavy snow.

Great day to shop local #positivity #shopsmall #supportsmallbusiness #Snowing #snow pic.twitter.com/LvF19q5X6c

— Regal fruits (@regalfruiterers) January 14, 2021

However, for Paradise Foods at Daleside Nurseries in Killinghall, the snow defeated their attempts to get to the food wagon and open up.

The team is hoping to return to normal service from tomorrow, when it is open from 10am to 2pm.

1.10pm – Bin collections suspended

Harrogate Borough Council has suspended its waste and recycling collections across the Harrogate district as snow continues to fall.

The authority says bin crews will try to collect household waste over the coming days, but recycling collections will be completed on the next scheduled date.

Collections were already a day behind after heavy snow last week interrupted the schedule. HBC said crews will be working on Friday and Saturday as they try to catch up.

As you’ve probably seen, it is continuing to snow quite heavily across the Harrogate district. ❄️

Our crews have been doing their best they can this morning but with the conditions getting worse, waste and recycling collections have now been stood down. pic.twitter.com/vGDCOO1YXX

— Harrogate Borough Council (@Harrogatebc) January 14, 2021

1.03pm – Fallen tree blocks railway line

The rail line between Harrogate and Leeds has been blocked by a fallen tree, causing disruption to services.

National Rail reports delays and cancellations are expected until 2pm.

⚠️NEW: #Harrogate – Disruption between Leeds and Harrogate expected until 14:00

ℹ️ https://t.co/9M8cl0yDEY

— National Rail (@nationalrailenq) January 14, 2021

12.55pm – Police urge people not to travel unless necessary

North Yorkshire Police has issued a warning people not to travel unless they really need to.

Having dealt with more than 20 crashes already today, the force’s Roads Policing Group is asking people to stay at home and avoid unnecessary travel.

While the Harrogate district is contending with continuing snowfall, flooding is affecting roads elsewhere around the county.

12.15pm – Updated list of school closures

• All Saints C of E Primary School, Kirkby Overblow
• Beckwithshaw Primary School
• Coppice Valley Primary School, Harrogate
• Dacre Braithwaite C of E Primary School, Summerbridge
• Darley Community Primary School, Harrogate
• Forest Moor School, Darley
• Fountains C of E Primary School, Ripon
• Fountains Earth Lofthouse C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Goldsborough C of E Primary School, Knaresborough
• Grewelthorpe C of E Primary School, Ripon
• Hampsthwaite C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary School, Harrogate
• Killinghall C of E Primary School
• Kirkby Malzeard C of E Primary School
• Nidderdale High School
• North Rigton C of E Primary School
• Oatlands Infant School, Harrogate
• Oatlands Junior School, Harrogate
• Pannal Primary School
• Richard Taylor C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Ripley Endowed Primary School, Harrogate
• Roecliffe C of E Primary School, Boroughbridge
• Rossett Acre Primary School, Harrogate
• Rossett School, Harrogate
• Saltergate Infant School, Harrogate
• Saltergate Junior School, Harrogate
• Springwater School, Starbeck
• Staveley Community Primary School, Knaresborough
• St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Harrogate
• St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Knaresborough
• St Nicholas C of E Primary School, West Tanfield
• Summerbridge Community Primary School
• The Forest School, Knaresborough
• Western Primary School, Harrogate
• Willow Tree Community Primary School, Harrogate

11.55am – Disruption to household waste services

Harrogate Borough Council says its bin collection services are continuing despite the weather, but it may not be able to reach all the homes on today’s routes.

The council was already working to catch up on services missed during last Friday’s heavy snowfall.

Meanwhile, all three household waste recycling centres in Harrogate have been closed by North Yorkshire County Council because of the snow.

The county council’s website shows gritters were out on priority one routes over night, after a weather warning was issued by the Met Office.

#Skipton, #LeemingBar, #Northallerton, #Catterick Bridge, #Harrogate, #Leyburn, #Ripon and West Harrogate household waste recycling centres are closed due to #snow. pic.twitter.com/5A9oMVocc2

— North Yorkshire Council (@northyorksc) January 14, 2021

11.30am – disruption on bus routes to Leeds and Pateley Bridge

The Harrogate Bus Company has suspended its 36 service beyond Pannal to Leeds because of the condition of the A61.

It continues to operate between Ripon and Harrogate, and on to Pannal.

The 24 service between Harrogate and Pateley Bridge has been suspended, but the number 6 service to Pannal Ash has been reinstated after being stopped earlier in the morning.

Buses are now running on the 6 Harrogate-Pannal Ash

Unfortunately we're not able to reach any of our stops Between Pannal & Leeds on #The36. Were running as normal Ripon-Harrogate and Harrogate-Pannal.

Keep up to date with us here or at https://t.co/JWTWD3aX3a pic.twitter.com/p45X6JvhGR

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 14, 2021

10.35am – ‘Treacherous road conditions’ in Harrogate

North Yorkshire Police control room has shared a video of Harrogate onto its twitter this morning warning people to stay off the road unless it’s essential.

It may look very pretty, but it’s treacherous road conditions. Please only travel if it’s essential and absolutely necessary. This picture was taken in Harrogate. pic.twitter.com/Cf4oWg9v85

— NYP Control Room (@NYPControlRoom) January 14, 2021

10.22am – Snow prevents buses getting to Knaresborough

The Harrogate Bus Company has said it is unable to reach any of its stop to or around Knaresborough this morning.

The number 1 service is currently still running between Harrogate and Starbeck. Make sure to keep an eye on their twitter for further updates.

❄️ Our buses on The 1 are running between Harrogate and Starbeck, but we're currently unable to reach any more stops to or around Knaresborough.

Keep up to date with how all our buses are running here on Twitter, or on our website https://t.co/JWTWD3aX3a pic.twitter.com/CC2hOsxn32

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 14, 2021

10.14am – School closures

Schools across the Harrogate district are closing to all, including the children of key workers as a result of the snow.

• All Saints C of E Primary School, Kirkby Overblow
• Beckwithshaw Primary School
• Coppice Valley Primary School, Harrogate
• Dacre Braithwaite C of E Primary School, Summerbridge
• Darley Community Primary School, Harrogate
• Forest Moor School, Darley
• Fountains C of E Primary School, Ripon
• Fountains Earth Lofthouse C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Goldsborough C of E Primary School, Knaresborough
• Grewelthorpe C of E Primary School, Ripon
• Hampsthwaite C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary School, Harrogate
• Killinghall C of E Primary School
• Kirkby Malzeard C of E Primary School
• Nidderdale High School
• North Rigton C of E Primary School
• Oatlands Infant School, Harrogate
• Oatlands Junior School, Harrogate
• Pannal Primary School
• Richard Taylor C of E Primary School, Harrogate
• Ripley Endowed Primary School, Harrogate
• Roecliffe C of E Primary School, Boroughbridge
• Rossett Acre Primary School, Harrogate
• Rossett School, Harrogate
• Saltergate Infant School, Harrogate
• Saltergate Junior School, Harrogate
• Springwater School, Starbeck
• Staveley Community Primary School, Knaresborough
• St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Harrogate
• St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Knaresborough
• St Nicholas C of E Primary School, West Tanfield
• Summerbridge Community Primary School
• The Forest School, Knaresborough
• Western Primary School, Harrogate
• Willow Tree Community Primary School, Harrogate

10.07am – Recycling collection continues in some areas

Harrogate Borough Council has replied to a tweet from a local resident to say that recycling collection is continuing today in most areas. The council has said some areas that are difficult to get to may not be reached today.

Residents have been asked to leave their recycling outside for the time-being.

10.01am – Cars stuck in snow at Kex Gill

Multiple vehicles are reportedly stuck in the snow and ice near Kex Gill this morning.

The North Yorkshire Police Traffic Bureau has tweeted to say the A59 at Bolton Abbey is closed.

*TRAFFIC UPDATE* The #A59 at #BoltonAbbey is currently closed due to multiple vehicles stuck nr #Kex Gill in the snow & Ice.

— N Yorks Police Traffic Bureau & Road Safety Team (@NYTrafficBureau) January 14, 2021

09.46am – Harrogate and Ripon recycling centres closed

North Yorkshire County Council has made the decision to close recycling centres in Harrogate and Ripon.

Due to the #snow, #Catterick Bridge, #Harrogate, #Leyburn, #Ripon and West Harrogate Household Waste Recycling Centres are not open. pic.twitter.com/NR5pGXv3tH

— North Yorkshire Council (@northyorksc) January 14, 2021

09.18am – Some Harrogate bus services suspended

The Harrogate Bus Company has tweeted about further disruption due to the snow. It has said the 36 service is still running between Harrogate and Pannal but it cannot run through Harewood.

The 24 service from Harrogate to Pateley Bridge and number 6 between Harrogate and Pannal Ash have been suspended.

The snow is causing a few issues on the roads again this morning.

We're running buses on #The36 between Harrogate & Pannal, and between Leeds & Alwoodley. We're unable to run through Harewood.

Buses on 24 Harrogate-Pateley Bridge and 6 Harrogate-Pannal Ash are not able to run. pic.twitter.com/WGc7ssjVsG

— The Harrogate Bus Company (@harrogatebus) January 14, 2021

09.10am – Kettlesing Primary School to close 

Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary School has contacted the Stray Ferret to confirm it has made the decision to close the school.

It had previously hoped to open for pupils at 10am.

09.03am – Ripon market remains open

Ripon market is still open today despite the snow. The essential stalls open today include two fruit and vegetable stalls and a fishmongers.

08.44am – Beckwithshaw Primary School to close 

Beckwithshaw Primary School has now said it will close due to the snow.

It had previously planned to open at 10am.

08.25am – Ripley Primary School to close

Ripley Endowed Primary School has made the decision to close the school today due to the weather.

It had previously planned to open the school at 10am.

08.15am – Buses between Leeds airport and Harrogate disrupted

The A2 service from Bradford to Harrogate bus station, going via the airport, has been disrupted due to the snow.

Flyer Buses has reported, on its twitter, that it is unable to get into Harrogate due to a block in the road at Pool Bank.

Further updates can be found on its website.

https://twitter.com/FlyerBuses/status/1349626771017244672

08.05am – Only travel if essential says North Yorkshire County Council

The county council has reminded local residents of the yellow weather warning in place on twitter this morning. It has asked people to only travel if essential.

The gritters were out overnight in an effort to limit disruption.

A @metoffice yellow #weatherwarning for #snow and #ice in #NorthYorkshire is in place until 9pm today. We have gritted priority roads. Please only travel if essential and take extra care.

You can keep up to date with the forecast here ⬇️https://t.co/zHvC8EqeVU pic.twitter.com/CLUnA8AVNY

— North Yorkshire Council (@northyorksc) January 14, 2021

07.30am – Some schools remain open

In a twitter post, Harrogate High School has said it will remain open today.

It has advised its pupils who get lifts to school to work from home if possible and avoid the roads.

HHS is open today, but would advise any student that gets a lift to school, to work from home where possible, given the weather forecast of snow all day.
We will review the situation throughout the day.

— HarrogateHighSchool (@HarrogateHigh) January 14, 2021

07.10am – Harrogate Bus Company says buses are still running

In a twitter post, Harrogate Bus Company has left commuters know their services are still running despite the snow.

It said those using them for essential services should keep an eye on the Transdev app for any updates.

https://twitter.com/harrogatebus/status/1349615061002805248

Snow has been falling throughout the day in the Harrogate district.

The weather has forced schools to shut, even to the children of key workers, as roads and pavements became treacherous.

Cars and lorries have found themselves stuck and police and council officials have urged people to only drive if it is essential.

Readers from across the district have sent their photos of the snowy scenes. Here are some of the highlights:

In Nidderdale and Pateley Bridge …

Henry the llama (left) and Basil the alpaca (right) are loving today’s wintery conditions in Nidderdale. Photograph: Nidderdale Llamas

St Mary’s Church in Pateley Bridge surrounded by snow. Photograph: Ben Derrick

These two photos of snowy Pateley Bridge were sent to us on Twitter. (Left) by @suzehu on and (right) the B6265 down towards Pateley Bridge by @juliatetley.

In Ripon …

Ripon Cathedral stood out against the snow.

The obelisk in Ripon.

In Harrogate …

The Stray Ferret captured this image of Harrogate this morning as some braved the conditions.

Someone was able to enjoy the snow on the Stray today. Photograph: Samantha Armitage.

Sylvia Skipper, a reader, sent these snowy photos of Beckwithshaw.

Harrogate town centre was quiet today as many people stayed indoors.

The Pinewoods in Harrogate looked like something out of a film. Photograph: @PinewoodsHgt on twitter.

Sean Rutter sent us this photo of Harrogate Grammar School in the snow today.

In Knaresborough …

This pup enjoyed its morning walk in the Knaresborough snow this morning. Sent by Mark Hook on Twitter.

This stunning picture of Knaresborough viaduct was sent in by Sharon Colgan on Facebook.

Elsewhere in the district …

Spofforth in the snow sent on Facebook by Rory Ffoulkes.

The snow in Kettlesing was heavy today. This was sent by reader @Kettlesingbob on Twitter.

One of our readers sent us this shot on Markington today. Photograph: Tracie Kay

Gritters are out in force today as the Harrogate district braces itself for a second bout of heavy snow in a week.

Fountains Abbey near Ripon and RHS Harlow Carr in Harrogate have already decided to close tomorrow, with the Met Office warning of road closures, stranded vehicles, power cuts and loss of mobile phone coverage.

With heavy snow forecast all day tomorrow (Jan 14), Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, including the deer park will be closed all day for the safety of visitors and staff.
If you've booked to visit tomorrow you should receive a cancellation email shortly.@GHRHarrogate pic.twitter.com/iwPF7JWxWi

— Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, National Trust (@fountainsabbey) January 13, 2021

Unfortunately with more heavy snow forecast in Harrogate tomorrow, RHS Garden Harlow Carr and Garden Centre will be closed on Thurs 14th January.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused. If you have paid for tickets, please contact harlowcarr@rhs.org.uk to arrange a refund. pic.twitter.com/oW6oKnTMJI

— RHS Harlow Carr (@RHSHarlowCarr) January 13, 2021

A yellow weather warning for snow and ice is in place until 9pm tomorrow.

Although less severe than amber and red warnings, the Met Office still warns of “possible significant travel disruption”.

Overnight temperatures are forecast to fall as low as minus two degrees centigrade and not rise above freezing until Saturday, when another weather warning — this time for heavy rain — if effective.

A @metoffice yellow #weatherwarning for #snow and #ice in #NorthYorkshire is in place until 9pm tomorrow. Our gritting crews are treating priority roads but, if you must travel, please take extra care.

You can keep up to date with the forecast here ⬇️https://t.co/zHvC8EqeVU pic.twitter.com/02QCYkusKz

— North Yorkshire Council (@northyorksc) January 13, 2021

There are currently no flood warnings in the Harrogate district but they are in place nearby on the River Swale and River Ouse.

The Stray Ferret will provide weather and travel updates throughout the day tomorrow.

The Harrogate district is bracing itself for yet more travel disruption after the Met Office today issued another weather warning for snow.

Snow has just melted around the district but could make a comeback as early as Wednesday as today’s milder weather, which reached eight degrees centigrade, makes way for much colder temperatures of around freezing.

Read more:

• How Harrogate’s snow day unfolded and caused chaos
• Yorkshire Dales dark skies festival moves online

A Met Office yellow warning for ice is in place tonight and another yellow warning for snow has been issued from 5am on Wednesday until 9pm on Thursday.

The Met Office said:

“There is a chance of a period of heavy snow across this region; should it occur it is likely to cause significant travel disruption.

“There is a small chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel

“There is a slight chance that some rural communities, mainly those at higher elevations, could become cut off.

“There is a small chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected.”

Heavy snow caused significant disruption and chaos on the roads and for schools on Friday and Saturday.

Snow started falling at about 8am on Friday and did not stop in some places until after sunset.

North Yorkshire County Council’s gritting teams will be out in the Harrogate district tonight and tomorrow.

Key workers have been proving their worth every day in the pandemic – and some did so in spades again today.

Members of staff at The Harrogate Bus Company took to the roads with shovels and grit to help keep drivers moving.

When heavy snow fell for most of the day, major routes came to a standstill, leaving drivers stranded and holding up bus services. So, suspending services in the face of poor conditions, drivers, engineers, cleaners and even directors got to work in a new way.

A member of Harrogate Bus Company staff clears the road

Operations director Vitto Pizzuti said:

“Our team has really pulled together, to try and help around the town on a difficult day. The weather looks to have caught a lot of people by surprise, so we’ve been out gritting roads, getting stuck cars moving again, and doing what we can to help.

“The generosity of others has been really welcome too – like the team in Sainsbury’s in Knaresborough bringing hot drinks to our drivers waiting in the bus station.

“We’re hoping to have buses running normally again very soon, thanks to the effort of our colleagues.”

Read more:

• Gallery: Full day of heavy snow hits Harrogate district hard
• How Harrogate’s snow day unfolded and caused chaos

Heavy snow has hit Harrogate hard today. Some will have cursed the weather, but others have certainly embraced it.

Some drivers were forced to abandon their vehicles today on their way to work. Schools closed, even to the children of key workers.

As the snow fell, though, there were some who looked to take advantage and headed out for snow ball fights and sledging.

We sent out our photographer to capture the day and received photos from readers too. Here are just some of the highlights:

“Everyone recognises a good read when they see one!” Photo: Reed and Townsend

“Snowy view from Sharow, Ripon across the fields to Ripon Cathedral, lost in the mist!” Photo: Jill Warwick