CHILDREN swapped their books for sledges as the Arctic weather forced schools to close – and more looked set to enjoy another day off today.

But as they made the most of it, commuters faced further travel misery.

More than 160 schools in Kirklees were forced to close yesterday as icy weather continued its grip on the region and many were expected to shut today.

The council was inundated with calls and its website was updated throughout the day as further snow flurries forced schools to close.

Across West Yorkshire more than 400 schools remained shut.

Huddersfield town centre was almost deserted, as only a small number of shoppers braved the cold and ventured out.

Most of the stalls in Queensgate Market were open, after closing early on Tuesday, but generally business was slow.

It was the same story on New Street, with very few venturing out.