We are not surprised farmer Christoper Lewis and his fellow co-workers are miffed.

The crew had their snow plough out and were clearing the roads around Hinton Waldrist earlier this week.

And villagers were grateful for their efforts, especially as county council efforts have been focused on roads elsewhere.

But, it appears, Mr Lewis’ work has not been welcomed at County Hall – at least by the bureaucrats. Health and safety regulations, the council insisted, prevent farmers from using their machinery to help out.

Would this happen anywhere else in Europe? We doubt it.

This is a case of red tape entangling people who just want to help.

Mr Lewis has pledged to carry on and the community may well need his help today as snow was predicted ... we hope he does not get into trouble for this kind-hearted gesture.