Town is badly hit by heavy snowfall

EARLY morning snow brought havoc to Rathfriland and the surrounding rural areas last Thursday morning.

The wintry conditions forced a large number of schools in the area to close for the day, and brought more misery for local motorists.

Those travelling to work early on Thursday morning were worst affected with the main hills around Rathfriland impassable or at best treacherous.

Farmers using tractors assisted a number of motorists who became stuck around 7.30am on Downpatrick Street.

There were also problems reported at Newry Street, John Street and Dromore Street, with the steep Castle Hill out of bounds until late into the morning when the thaw set in.

Some motorists trying to get to work had to turn back, while others made the journey - albeit arriving at their destinations much later than expected.

Bus services were also affected and postal deliveries were running behind time.

Dozens of school children who were enjoying a bonus day off, gathered at the playing fields of Rathfriland High School to enjoy a day's sledging and snow-balling.

Motorists were advised to take extra care on the roads, as snow and slush made conditions treacherous.

Schools closed were; Iveagh Primary School, Rathfriland; Bronte Primary School, Rathfriland High School, Rathfriland Pre-School Playgroup, St Matthew's Primary School, Magheramayo, St Patrick's Primary School, Hilltown, Fairhill Primary School, Kinallen, Drumadonnell Primary School, St Michael's Primary School, Dromara, St Mary's Primary School, Rathfriland, St Mary's Primary School, Dechomet, Ballyward, St Patrick's Primary School, Drumgreenagh, Rathfriland, Milltown Primary School, Banbridge, Dromore Central Primary School, Bridge Integrated Primary School, Banbridge and Poyntzpass Primary School.

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