Tain 'community spirit' praised in wake of response to heavy snowfall

Local councillor Alasdair Rhind, town residents and the police have received praise for their 'community spirit' in the wake of an unusually heavy snowfall last night in Tain.

Sudden and heavy snow showers between 3pm and 6pm brought traffic to a standstill as vehicles struggled to drive in the conditions, causing significant delays during a busy time of the day.

Facebook users took to social media to show their appreciation for those who did their bit to direct traffic and assist.

Local resident Archie MacArthur said: "I was so impressed last night by the community spirit of people like Alasdair Rhind, helping to keep the traffic flowing despite the unusual severity of the snowfall.

Members of the public were also doing their bit to help each other out as the weather grew worse.

Mr MacArthur added: "There were folks on Geanies Street with buckets of grit, helping to push vans that would otherwise have been stuck for hours and would have further added to the traffic flow."

Rebekah Guthrie said: "I would like to thank the guy in the white 4x4 who got out and pushed my car until I got some grip outside the Tain Library. When I went out the roads where flooded, but by the time I got to Tain it was a whiteout."

Businesses were also doing their bit to support drivers stuck in long traffic delays.

Silverback Gym, based in Blarliath Industrial Estate, made their premises available to drivers to pop in for a drink or use their toilet facilities.

Just outside Tain, Police Scotland were on duty at the A9 bypass between the Morangie Road and Knockbreck Road junctions, helping drivers who had become stuck in the snow or lost traction.

Inspector Christopher Murray said: "I would like to extend my appreciation to officers and members of the public within Tain, and the Easter Ross area, for the community approach displayed during last night’s weather conditions.

"Heavy snowfall, although a common occurrence in the Highlands, resulted in significant disruption on our roads for a short time. Despite the conditions, officers, the public, and our partners pulled together to assist motorists who became stuck due to the conditions, ensuring everyone got home safely.

"We take pride in the relationship we have with our communities and last night was an example of the support and excellent relationship we have with our community and partners."

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