More than 460 potholes had to be repaired after the Beast from the East left several of Medway’s roads in ruin.

The freezing temperatures left hundreds of potholes opened up across the Towns.

As soon as the snow and ice had thawed out the council’s highways team travelled around the main and residential roads and fixed 465 potholes.

The team spread 1,600 tonnes of salt on Medway’s primary and secondary routes during the snowy conditions between February 26 and March 3.

Staff were also working continuously to refill the 455 salt bins across the Towns which were being emptied as fast as they were being filled.

Snow wardens worked hard to keep footpaths clear but conditions were too difficult for Veolia staff to carry out their waste and recycling collections.

They started again on March 5 and collected 1,867 tonnes of refuse and 581 tonnes of recycling – an increase of 756 tonnes and 228 tonnes respectively.

Snow ploughs and gritters helped to keep Medway moving and the council used 4x4s to take social care staff to check on people living in sheltered housing.

Medway Norse and volunteers for South East 4x4 Response to take stranded health care professionals to hospital and food to care homes.

Services for the homeless stayed open at Kingsley House in Gillingham and offered accommodation.

Winter vehicles were also sent to Hoo Peninsula when snow drifts blocked the roads.

Farmers were equipped with snow ploughs they could attach to the front of tractors to help rural roads.

Leader of Medway Council, Cllr Alan Jarrett, said: “Council staff showed their commitment to supporting communities across Medway, with many walking to work to keep public facilities open and some offering to help colleagues who provided vital services to our most vulnerable residents.

“I’d also like to personally thank the local farmers who worked with our winter crews to clear snow drifts in the Hoo peninsula.

“Organisations and volunteers worked together to help keep Medway moving and to continue providing support to our most vulnerable residents.

“Many staff worked around the clock to provide support to communities across Medway and I am proud to be a Medway resident knowing the efforts made to help those most in need.”