THE coldest weather in more than a decade smashed into Trafford this week.

There was widespread disruption to travel as temperatures plunged across the borough to -6C as the front called the Beast from the East struck.

It led to some of the coldest temperatures when combined with wind chill, which made outdoor temperatures feel many degrees colder than the thermometer would suggest.

Trafford Council said it had gritting crews out helping keep roads clear and would be providing a refuge to homeless people under its cold weather provision, which kicked in on Monday and is due to be reviewed tomorrow.

But with Storm Emma due to bring blizzards and heavy snow northwards tomorrow, there was a continued need for families and friends to check on elderly parents and vulnerable neighbours.

The charity ageUK this week highlighted the effects of cold weather on the elderly.

A total of 31,800 excess deaths were recorded last winter by the Office of National Statistics, as compared to the previous winter of 20,800.

A spokesman for the charity said: “There is a high probability of severe cold weather, icy conditions and heavy snow in parts of England until Saturday 3 March.

“Exposure to the cold can have a devastating impact on older people, who are particularly vulnerable to the impact of low temperatures. As people get older it takes longer to warm up which can be bad for health. Breathing in cold air lowers the body temperature, and raises the risk of chest infections, heart attacks and strokes.”

Trafford Council suggests that if anyone has concerns about somebody sleeping rough they should refer them to Housing Options Service Trafford (HOST) by calling 0161 912 2230 or 0800 218 2000 out of hours.

For details about gritting in Trafford, visit trafford.gov.uk/residents/transport-and-streets/roads-highways-and-pavements/gritting.aspx