District hit by heavy snowfall

The Banbridge area was the worst hit in the latest falls of snow to hit Northern Ireland.

Many of the area's roads were left treacherous, some impassable, when the snow fell, last Thursday morning.

The icy conditions and associated problems also led to many school closures across the district.

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Some of the schools that were closed included: Milltown Primary School (Lenaderg), Bridge Integrated Primary School, St Michael’s Primary School (Dromara), Fairhill Primary School, Dromore Central Primary School, Rathfriland High School and Banbridge High School.

However not all schools were closed and despite the elements, Abercorn Primary School, St Mary’s Primary School, Edenderry Primary School and New Bridge Integrated College remained open.

Mr Gerry Jones, Principal of Newbridge Integrated College said, “We are open as normal despite the weather and we have a strong attendance from the pupils and almost a full complement of staff.

"We decided to remain open due to examinations taking place today and tomorrow (Thursday and Friday). We are pleased that the school had minimal disruption.”

There was a rapid thaw during the morning, leaving the area almost snow-free by the afternoon, although forecasters are warning of more wintry weather this week.