My Dad used to fit winter tyres - he went around East Kent visiting farmers, and so it was useful, back in the 50s, 60s, when farmers used to put up snow fencing to trap drifts before they formed in between the hedges alongside roads. They would be a waste of money in usual winters in the south of the UK, as would snow chains. On, off, every few hours. Or, indeed, after 20 mins driving down from the heights of the North Downs (which are ups) into the valleys of the local rivers. It would be different in the north - if you come from a continental interior, not under the variable track of the jet stream, the variation in our small island could take you by surprise.

I did in my youth, for a while, under the influence of a book on car emergencies, not only have a shovel, but also a biscuit tin containing survival essentials: matches, a couple of nightlights, sugar cubes, stock cubes, and a few other things which now escape me. I also had an enamel mug for melting snow over the candles in. I was greatly disappointed never to have to put this to use at the time, which was one of our mild periods.

I still carry a blanket, padded clothing and foil covers, torches, shovel, rock salt, and an old beach mat. I saw my neighbour had some plastic gripping mats - can anyone tell me how one reclaims them after moving off? I don't mind writing off the beach mat.

Then I leave my car in the garage.

Penny