A YEAR ago today the country was bracing itself for one of the coldest snaps in recent decades.

The Beast from the East caused widespread disruption for nearly a whole week as sub-zero temperatures gripped the district along with the rest of the country. At its worst, the big freeze saw four inches of snowfall in just one night, which led to havoc on the roads and rails the following morning.

With temperatures this week reaching double figures, it seems we are under no threat from a repeat of the Beast.

But a year ago people were trudging through a winter wonderland.

The county woke up to a thick blanket of snow, and as many as 18 primary and secondary schools were forced to close in the Braintree district, along with hundreds more across Essex.

Some businesses on Halstead High Street kept their doors shut as both staff and customers struggled to cope in treacherous conditions on the hill.

While some shops suffered a nightmare during the chilly weather, Toy Crazy in Weavers Court sold out of sledges within hours.

Communities came together to help those in need during the severe weather conditions, from clearing roads and paths to Halstead’s very own rescue mission.

When 13-year-old Aiden Pye fell into the River Colne, near Billsons Opticians, he was rescued by a brave passer-by who even took him to a shop and brought him some new dry clothes.

Speaking after the terrifying event, Aiden’s mum Lucy said: “Aiden is a strong swimmer so isn’t fearful of water. However, I’m not sure he is fully aware of the effect of hypothermia.

“I can’t thank the person enough. They took him to the shop and got him new shoes, trousers and a jumper. It was a pure act of kindness.”