SCHOOLS were closed, roads were blocked, trains were cancelled and essential supplies disrupted as the 'Beast from the East' struck Helensburgh with a vengeance last week.

As the Met Office's first-ever 'red alert' weather warning loomed on Wednesday afternoon, the decision was taken to close all schools in Helensburgh and Lomond early.

Schools remained closed on Thursday and Friday and in many cases teams of volunteers lent a hand over the weekend clearing away snow so the doors could open again on Monday

Trains to and from Helensburgh were also badly disrupted, with services at both Helensburgh Central and Helensburgh Upper cancelled for three full days before the lines were finally cleared.

The A814 between Helensburgh and Dumbarton was closed on Thursday due to deep snowdrifts and abandoned cars, and the A817 Haul Road between Luss and Garelochhead was also shut for a spell, though access to Helensburgh was maintained after treatment of the A818 between Blackhill and Arden.

Council provost Len Scoullar said: “This has been a real team effort - people have gone well and truly beyond the call of duty.

"I would like to say a very special thank you to every single person who voluntarily assisted the council staff and any others who needed help.

"Your efforts and caring have been very special.”