FIVE schools in south Essex closed due to adverse weather conditions...despite only a sprinkling of snow falling.

Billericay and Mayflower secondary schools in Billericay closed on Friday due to concerns over icy surfaces being dangerous for staff and pupils.

Cedar Hall School, Benfleet, and Castle View School, Canvey also closed.

The Federation of Greenways School in Southend “reluctantly” closed due to the flood warning in place for Southend.

However, residents were less than impressed by the school closures with many people saying it was an unnecessary reaction.

Councillor Andrew Schrader, a Conservative Basildon councillor for Billericay East, said: “It is the school’s decision to close if they think there is a risk to the children.

“However, I do think it is odd that they closed.

“I can imagine there were a lot of unhappy parents in Billericay.

“It is strange both the secondary schools in Billericay closed, but all the primary schools remained open.

“The schools knew there was a forecast of snow, so it is surprising they did not do anything, such as grit the pathways.

“It will be important to learn from this and look back at and see what can be done.

“Maybe the council needs to work closer with the schools so that they can stay open.”

Parents joked Billericay School should stop its ski-ing trip as the children might get injured on the ice, while others were amazed the school had closed.

There was a light coating of snow on the ground after it snowed on Thursday and again on Friday.

Despite concerns about dangerous conditions, most roads coped with the snow and there were few reported accidents.

Canvey resident Tara Palmer, who has two children, was also unimpressed. She said: “It is an overreaction.

“I understand some schools pipes freeze but why not pay to have extra lagging?

“My sons go Lee Chapel Primary on Canvey and they never close.

“Mrs Jackson has made sure the schools maintenance is 100 per cent and even after four foot of snow it still opens.

“Teachers can’t get in sometimes so they combine classes and teachers cross teach.

“It’s ridiculous they close over a tiny bit of sleet.

“It’s not even snow.

“The roads are clear and there is no reason to close.

“It’s our children’s education they are denying.

“They should be fined every time they close due to lack of maintenance on the property.”

Basildon mum Jane Huggins said: “Roads are still open, public transport still running, it’s not like anyone will be stranded.

“Closing the schools is an overreaction.”

And dad Kevin Byrne, of Leigh, said: “It is way over the top. Some countries have it for six months of the year. It’s a joke really.

“I understand roads are icy and the paths but come on - I went to school in the rain and snow.”

The closure of the Federation of Greenways School was due to a sever flood risk.

However, no flooding materialised and the alert was downgraded.