Basingstoke residents have shared their appreciation for a rare snow day which raised the spirits of people across the borough.

One said today has been the first time in 'ages' that she had heard so much happiness while out in the garden.

After nearly a year of various lockdowns and living in the shadow of coronavirus, youngsters had something to smile about when waking up to a town covered in a blanket of the white stuff.

Adhering to the government's advice to stay local and stay in household groups, many ventured into their gardens or to their nearest parks to make the most of the wintry weather. 

At Beggarwood Park and Stratton Park, families could be seen making the most of the hilly areas to partake in some sledding.

Meanwhile, snowmen and women were seen cropping up on street corners and back gardens around the borough.

Residents and Gazette readers have reflected on what today has meant for them - and the little bit of fun the snow has injected into their day.

One reader wrote: “We’ve had the best day sledding at Stratton Park. Everyone keeping to their bubbles and distancing.

“But best of all – smiley, happy faces which I’m sure everyone needs at the moment.”

Another said: “It’s [been] nice to hear laughter and seeing everyone enjoy themselves in a time of doom and gloom.”

Basingstoke Gazette: War Memorial Park War Memorial Park

One woman took to Twitter to write: "You know what, I think so many people needed this snow day. For the first time in ages, I heard so much happiness outside whilst in the garden.

"The laughter was just so pure. For once, Covid didn't spoil this day and wasn't on anyone's mind. Or so it seemed."
 

"The laughter was just so pure. For once, Covid didn't spoil this day and wasn't on anyone's mind. Or so it seemed."

And one wrote: “Love it, we need some light at the moment. I’d much rather people frolic in the snow and lift their mood than being stuck inside or visit friends in homes.”

Basingstoke Gazette: Sledging at Beggarwood Park (Credit: Jane Ford)Sledging at Beggarwood Park (Credit: Jane Ford)

Another said: “We had great fun this morning going to our local park. Those of us who were out were all socially distancing in family groups and as part of our daily exercise.”

While the snow had largely melted by late afternoon, the morning fun has hopefully left smiles. on the faces of many across the town. 

  • The Gazette put out a call for photographs and we have been inundated with wonderful pictures of people enjoying themselves. We will be uploading them into an online gallery tomorrow and will print a special selection of them in this week's paper (out on Thursday).