Older residents still talk about the winter of 1962-63, one of the coldest periods experienced in Britain during the twentieth century.
The severe weather began shortly before Christmas and continued well into March. Temperatures remained below freezing for weeks at a time, rivers froze and heavy snow caused major disruption across the country.
In Lincolnshire, drifting snow blocked roads and isolated rural communities. Deliveries became difficult, making fuel supplies especially important for households dependent on coal fires and solid fuel heating.
During this period, many families burned significantly more fuel than normal simply to keep their homes warm.
The winter of 1963 serves as a reminder of how important it is to prepare fuel stocks before severe weather arrives. Although winters today are generally milder, sudden cold spells can still lead to increased demand and temporary supply pressures.
Keeping a reserve of logs, smokeless fuel and kindling has long been considered good practice by experienced stove owners—and lessons learned during the winter of 1963 continue to hold true today.