While most dads might be content to help their kids build snowmen, Utah father Brent Christensen builds ice castles.

BBC: Two castles, built icicle by icicle

But Dr Reaney was sceptical that snowmen could have a major impact on the rate of thaw.

BBC: Can building snowmen really help to prevent flooding?

The snowmen all hold memories for the Howes', including the most expensive that was bought as a 20th wedding anniversary gift.

BBC: Diana Howes' Norfolk snowman collection 'snowballed'

Building snowmen could help prevent a big thaw causing more flooding in the two counties, a flood advice group has said.

BBC: Snowman

The army of snowmen only comes out at Christmas.

BBC: Diana Howes' Norfolk snowman collection 'snowballed'

Dr Reaney said that in urban areas, where melted snow runs directly off roads and pavements into drains, snowmen would make more of a difference than in fields where it would take longer for the water to filter into watercourses.

BBC: Can building snowmen really help to prevent flooding?

Coleman played a surprise role in last September's season premiere -- as Oswin, a different character from Clara, but one connected to her -- and takes on full companion duties in "The Snowmen" Christmas episode, airing December 25 at 9 p.m.

CNN: Actress Jenna-Louise Coleman talks 'Doctor Who'