THE big freeze has gripped Ellesmere Port over the past week, but the town has escaped lightly compared to other parts of the country.

The Met Office had forecast that temperatures would plummet to -4ºC last night, but it expects conditions to be above freezing by the end of the week.

Despite the sub-zero temperatures, Cheshire West and Chester Council has had no school or main road closures in the town and waste collection services have been unaffected.

The authority says it is continually monitoring the weather and road conditions, adding that gritting salt is in plentiful supply if needed.

The Countess of Chester Hospital has seen an increase in the number of people attending with broken bones, sprains or bruising. They have also treated several cases of hypothermia.

It is urging people not to use the A&E department unless it is really necessary as staff need to be free to deal with patients who have serious and life-threatening illnesses.

Firefighters are urging people to stay away from frozen ponds and rivers during the cold snap.

John Salt, unitary performance manager for Cheshire West and Chester, said: “Venturing on to frozen ponds, lakes and rivers is extremely dangerous, the ice may look sturdy but you can never be sure of its thickness and how much weight it can support.

“Please don't put yourself or others at risk and stay off the ice. I would also encourage parents to warn their children about the dangers. ”

Dog owners are advised to keep pets on leads to avoid them from getting into difficulties.

For more safety advice, visit www.cheshirefire.gov.uk.