It was one of the worst blizzards the south of Britain had seen for over 100 years, bringing many regions to a complete standstill.

Although Southampton was buried under a thick blanket of the white stuff on February 18, 1978, it wasn’t as badly hit as the south west - especially Dorset.

It was reported that Exeter Airport experienced snow drifts of over 24ft which, when coupled with the blockage of numerous roads, led to the collapse of the transport network.

Many parts of Devon experienced no electricity or running water for three days after power lines came down, while supplies of food and water were flown into the worst hit areas by helicopter.

Here in Hampshire, numerous traffic accidents and breakdowns were reported and, although the roads were passable, residents were advised to take extreme care.

That didn’t stop children and big kids alike taking to the snow to build and slide.

In Lordshill youths gathered amid the fresh powder to build a snowman of epic proportions. Once complete, their giant snowman stood at over eight feet tall.

The hills around Hampshire were pebbledashed with chilly thrill seekers eager to get to the bottom on sledges, toboggans or whatever they could find.