Most mornings we have been greeted with a thick rime covering all in its path. In fact Monday's cold snap was probably the worst we've had for a good few years.
This weather contributed to the carnage that a number of you will have witnessed on th
e A1 south of Alnwick last Tuesday morning, as featured in the Gazette last week.
The dispute goes on over whether the road was adequately gritted – or should that be salted – but whatever the outcome of that it was a stark warning to all about the perils of winter driving.
Amid the reports of roads being inadequately gritted, I have also heard stories of cars belting through the affected area at incredible speeds despite the chaos all around them.
It didn't seem to matter to them that vehicle after vehicle was flipped on its roof, like a scene from a demolition derby.
No, they were determined to get through the blockage at break-neck speed whatever the outcome.
Whether it was the behaviour of some drivers or the state of the road, something prompted the police to set up rolling convoys to take motorists through the affected area slowly and safely.
I cannot think of a worse time, just before Christmas, to be involved in a crash and write off the car and possibly yourself.
From November until March or so, getting from A to B is no longer straightforward.
And if your journey is on a minor or untreated road it can be even more perilous.
We've all heard the tips about carrying a blanket, a shovel, wellies, a flask of tea or coffee and some provisions, but how many of us do it?
I've often preached about the dangers of driving in ice or snow.
"Gan canny" I can hear my driving instructor say, slow down, turn the wheel into the skid and keep in a high gear.
They were words of wisdom indeed and advice which has remained with me to this day.
I would urge everybody else to take heed and stay safe this winter.
Give yourself extra time to defrost the windscreen and don't set off until the whole screen is clear.
When out on the road, keep your speed down and remain well away from the vehicle in front.
It's better to be a few minutes late than not get to your destination at all.
I read the weather forecast the other night that the odds are against a white Christmas this year, but ice is perhaps a greater hazard.
I wish you all safe driving this festive season. Merry Christmas.
