EVEN the coldest heart needs comfort when it’s bitterly cold – and what could be better than a pint?

A very chilly seasonal guest enjoyed a drink with Viv Bailey, landlady of England’s highest pub, as the snow lay thick on the ground of Swaledale.

Snow is not unusual on the higher reaches of the Dale and the roads to the pub are clear thanks to the efforts of highways clearance teams.

However pub staff had to go to the rescue of one group of four who found themselves stuck earlier this week.

They used a 4x4 to pull the stricken vehicle free and the four relieved occupants went on to enjoy a birthday night in the pub.

“It was our first rescue of the year,” said Viv. “I’m pretty sure there will be more as the winter progresses.”