SOMERSET County Council's highways team attended 33 incidents over the Christmas period to ensure our roads were kept clear.

High winds on Christmas Day lead to numerous tree falls, including New Cross, South Petherton, where 12 trees fell.

Tree surgeons worked during Boxing Day to remove the debris and this was followed by additional works by BT, who replaced some fallen telegraph poles. This work has now been completed and the road has been re-opened today (Thursday, December 28).

Winds decreased on Boxing Day, but there was heavy rain countywide.

Many minor roads, alongside some of our major routes experienced flooding. This included the A358 at Donyatt and the A37, both of which have now been reopened.

In other locations Crowcombe Combe Road is currently closed between Crowcombe and Over Stowey due to sheet ice.

The road will remain closed until this has thawed. Drivers should stay on the main road and use the A358 and A39 which are on the salting network.

The B3224 is now also open to all traffic after being affected by snow, however Sminhays Corner and Heath Poult Cross should both be approached at a reduced speed with additional care.

Cllr John Woodman, County Hall's cabinet member for highways, said: “I would like to thank everyone for all of their hard work over the Christmas period to keep the roads open and safe.

"Residents should however stay aware of any changing situations, through our social media channels, and the local media and take care when travelling especially in rural areas."

There are currently no weather warnings in place for the county, and the highways team will continue to assess the need for gritting as required.

For further information residents can follow @travelsomerset on Twitter