WHAT a difference a year makes!

Herefordshire is basking in glorious sunshine today, with the settled weather bringing temperatures into the high teens.

But this time last year, forecasters warned of a severe cold wave set to wreak havoc across the country.

The arrival of the Beast from the East on February 22 caused widespread disruption, bringing freezing temperatures before blanketing Britain with heavy snow.

Many parts of the country ground to a standstill as roads and railways became blocked and stranded emergency and care workers had to be ferried through the drifts by an army of volunteer 4x4 owners.

Children and adults alike dusted the cobwebs from sledges and snow shovels as schools and workplaces were forced to close.

But the forecast for the same week this year couldn't be more different.

Forecasters at the BBC are predicting that today's sunshine and balmy temperatures are set to continue through the weekend and into next week, with temperatures due to hit highs of around 14 celcius.

And whilst we are expected to see a bit more cloud towards the end of next week, conditions are expected to remain mild into early March, with some slightly wetter weather entering the picture during the first week of next month.

Have you been out and about enjoying the sunshine today? You can upload your pictures to the Hereford Times Camera Club Facebook group.