An ice surprise greeted South Pembrokeshire residents this morning (Thursday, January 18) as a layer of snow had fallen overnight.

Often during the winter, the Met Office predicts snow for our region but it rarely falls with any significance in the mild coastal areas, so the prospect of the landscape suddenly ‘bewitched’ as white as Narnia was cheering.

For once, the 20mph speed limit on the road through Johnston seemed a highly appropriate one. Standing out as a prime example of Winter Wonderland was The Larder. Such a pity that the staff were stuck in their street on account of the snow and unable to see how picturesque the restaurant and bar looked this morning!

While the settling of snow can bring with it chaos and disruption - not to mention slippery pavements and roads, it was also a welcome sight for many children in Haverfordwest who were treated to an impromptu day off school and the chance to make and throw snowballs.

Snow in Haverfordwest
(Observer pic)

Twenty-two schools in Pembrokeshire closed their doors today, including Hook Community Primary School, Pembrokeshire Learning Centre, Portfield School in Haverfordwest and Roch Community School.

Partly closed were Ysgol Hafan y Môr in Tenby, Ysgol Harri Tudur in Pembroke and Haverfordwest High School and two others.

Although further snow and hail fell in the morning, warm sun worked its magic around lunchtime and - returning to Pembroke Dock via the Cleddau Bridge - the river banks were looking much greener than on the outward journey.

The afternoon brought rain to Pembroke Dock, leaving few signs of the blanket that adorned the town at first light, but this has now turned to snow, leaving the possibility of more wintry scenes.

Stay warm, and safe, everyone!