The snow is here again and, as usual, we get hit particularly hard up here on the hill in Woodingdean. Being so high up there are some spectacular views from up here and the snow adds even greater beauty. Being a keen amateur photographer and film maker it’s tempting to try and get out and capture some of these scenes. I have a walking disability which makes it very dangerous for me getting out and I don’t fancy being “on my back” in some hospital ward for the next few weeks so I’ll have to be content with “happy snapping” from the windows of my bungalow or, being adventurous, and taking a few steps out into my garden.

My doggy Monty, an Irish Terrier, finds it all rather baffling – “what is all this stuff that’s suddenly appeared on his lawn”? He also finds it a lot of fun; the local children who walk him for me tell me he loves rushing around in the snow and riding on their sleigh.

This reminds me of a good thing about the snow: it can bring out what the older folk call the “wartime spirit” helping one another in time of need. From the kids walking Monty to the wonderful neighbours who have done some shopping for me, they are marvelous. Sometimes I've heard about neighbours speaking to one another in times like this who have not spoken for ages and so snow, as bad as it is, can help foster closer communities.