Headteachers in South East Cornwall have defended their decision to close schools during this week’s adverse weather.

Many schools have shut for the second day today.

Menheniot was among the last of the district’s schools to say it would be closed.

As the snow fell hard in some parts of the district and missed others, some parents complained that their children were being sent home.

Cornwall Council sent out advice to all schools in the county advising of the forecast for high winds and heavy snow and the potential for icy, dangerous driving conditions.

A spokesperson for St Martin’s Primary School in Liskeard said that the decision to close took into account the catering provision, taxi drivers taking children home, and staff from outlying villages.

Posting on the school website, head of school Holly Bridges said: ‘If the snow doesn’t appear, at least we’ll have done our best to be prepared, avoid a panic and keep everyone safe.’

Liskeard Hillfort head Dr Tim Cook also posted a message to parents.

‘As you are aware, forecasting has been difficult.

‘Our staff travel to work from places such as Plymouth, moorland areas, Newquay, Truro and pretty much everywhere in between.

‘On balance, I think that parents and carers will appreciate having advance notice rather than having to make last minute plans.’