AN unexpected surprise for many and an inconvenience to others, Worcester residents have woken up to find their homes covered in snow. 

An icon of the festive period, snow brought smiles to children's faces but frustration for those using the cities public transport. 

More than 30 schools across Worcestershire were either closed all day or closed early today (November 19) as the weather shocked the county.

Worcestershire County Council gritters hit the streets last night (November 18) for the first time this season, and then twice more before the morning commute.

Thanks to the gritting team the council announced early in the morning that all primary and secondary roads had been cleared and were running smoothly. 

The same cannot be said for those travelling by train. 

A signal fault between Worcester Foregate Street Train Station and Hereford meant that early morning commuters were left with either cancelled trains or delays of up to an hour.

It was later revealed that this signal fault was due to a tree falling on the line which also had implications for people coming from Great Malvern and Ledbury.

A yellow weather warning had been issued by the Met Office warning of snow and ice across the West Midlands including areas of Worcestershire.

A large amount of children across stayed at home to enjoy the festive treat as schools such as Carnforth School and Fort Royal Community Primary School closed for the day. 

Here is a list of the full school closures in Worcester: 

- Carnforth School

- Fort Royal Community Primary School

- Regency High School

- Honeywell Primary School (closed early)

Whilst Worcester's roads remained somewhat clear, countryside roads were slow going and many more schools had to close in neighbouring towns and villages including four schools in Martley and six schools in Malvern. 

King's Schools remained open but advised students and parents to take care when driving. 

Droitwich Spa High School decided to close its doors for years 9 and 12 to prioritise year 11 students who had exams, as some staff had been unable to commute. 

A tree also fell on Hanbury Park Road, partially blocking it. 

Despite the Met Office warning that there was a 46 percent chance of snow today, no warning has been put in place for snow tomorrow (November 20), however a yellow weather warning remains in place in parts of Wales and Scotland.