The needle allowed humans to clothe themselves, protecting themselves against cold weather and opening regions outside of the tropics to human settlement.

FORBES: No. 13 The Needle

Work was to be finished by July but bad weather and difficult conditions mean the re-opening could be delayed.

BBC: Stainforth landslip rail line to be closed until September

The severe weather has led to a number of schools closing or opening later in order to allow extra time for the teachers to arrive.

BBC: Warning as severe weather continues