Worried shoppers have been clearing supermarket shelves of bread, milk and warm clothing to see them through the impending big freeze.
Stocking up - shopper Joanne Richardson Picture: ROB BROWNE VLCK73
Warnings of Arctic conditions including sleet and snow have encouraged people to stock up on essential items in case supplies run low. Supermarkets have put hundreds of lorries on standby to deliver extra food.
Kath Ward, of Asda, North Shoebury Road, Shoebury, said: "Yesterday was horrendous. People bought lots more bread, milk and tinned soup.
"People are stocking up for the cold weather and some had five to six loaves of bread each. The store was very busy. We were not running out but we sold so much, gaps appeared in the shelves that we had to restock."
Published Tuesday January 27, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article