Snowfalls are now just a thing of the past (2000)

> Michael Jeacock, a Cambridgeshire local historian, added that a generation was growing up "without experiencing one of the greatest joys and privileges of living in this part of the world - open-air skating".

> Warmer winters have significant environmental and economic implications, and a wide range of research indicates that pests and plant diseases, usually killed back by sharp frosts, are likely to flourish. But very little research has been done on the cultural implications of climate change - into the possibility, for example, that our notion of Christmas might have to shift.

> Professor Jarich Oosten, an anthropologist at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands, says that even if we no longer see snow, it will remain culturally important.

> "We don't really have wolves in Europe any more, but they are still an important part of our culture and everyone knows what they look like," he said.

Stiff upper lip, no? To take what joy you can from the terrible adversity..

> David Parker, at the Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research in Berkshire, says ultimately, British children could have only virtual experience of snow. Via the internet, they might wonder at polar scenes - or eventually "feel" virtual cold.

"ultimately, British children could have only virtual experience of snow". Mawkish and depressive messaging.

> Heavy snow will return occasionally, says Dr Viner, but when it does we will be unprepared. "We're really going to get caught out. Snow will probably cause chaos in 20 years time," he said.

"Snow will probably cause chaos in 20 years time". Ok... We're almost, 23 years on now, and we've had snow in the logger few years, and already this year.

What a load of bs.