POLITICAL party leaders in South Gloucestershire have formally thanked residents who gave their time to help others during the onset of Storm Emma.

The freak weather incident saw the region covered in snow, with the Met Office and emergency services warning residents not to travel.

But nonetheless, many with vehicles more suited to the cold conditions braved the elements to help the likes of emergency and medical staff, make it to work. 

In a statement issued by the three group leaders at South Gloucestershire Council today, Cllr Matthew Riddle, Cllr Ruth Davis and Cllr Pat Rooney said: “On behalf of the council we would like to extend our thanks to the people with 4x4 vehicles who volunteered their time to help others get about following the heavy snowfall at the beginning of the month.

“Their response to calls from the local NHS for 4x4 drivers to help get patients and healthcare professionals to where they needed to go demonstrated a tremendous community spirit in South Gloucestershire.

“And thank you to council staff for their efforts in keeping the majority of services running despite the sub-zero temperatures.

“Whether it was delivering community meals, making sure essential care continued to be delivered to people in need or getting the district’s roads gritted, we appreciate the commitment shown to keep South Gloucestershire moving.”