Severe weather: UK buffeted by blizzards

Heavy snow around the UK has continued to cause travel disruption and the loss of power to thousands of homes.

Upwards of 3,000 schools were closed in England, Wales and Scotland.

In south Wales a rare Met Office red snow warning of severe disruption was in force until 21:00 GMT.

There are amber warnings - which mean the public must be prepared for disruption and only travel if necessary - in place in parts of Scotland, north-east England, Northern Ireland, Yorkshire and Humber.

Hywel Griffith reports from Merthyr Tydfil in south Wales.