As freezing temperatures grip Britain this week, the RSPCA is urging people to make sure animals are kept warm and safe. Nature-lovers are being encouraged to look out for birds by leaving out extra food such as seeds, grains, net-free fat or suet balls, apples and pears.
And garden ponds need to be checked every day to make sure the surface is not entirely frozen as poisonous gases can build up under the ice – and if it is only pour hot water on to the surface to melt a hole.