Pints, popcorn and dancing How to survive a snow-in at Britain's highest pub

What happened when 33 people were snowed in at Britain's highest pub during a severe weather warning? The Guardian's north of England correspondent explains.

- Robyn Vinter

Day 1: Saturday, 4pm

I have picked up the photographer Gary Calton en route from Leeds to the Tan Hill Inn in North Yorkshire. This is a story I've been hoping to cover for years and I'm surprised it's actually happening. We listen to the Spice Girls as we navigate the steep and winding Yorkshire Dales roads arriving just before the sun sets. We settle in with half a pint of stout each and get chatting to the overwhelmingly friendly punters, many of whom are excited about seeing either the Rag'n'Bone Man tribute act or the Citroen 2CV car meet that is supposed to be happening tomorrow.

7.30pm The Rag'n'Bone Man act calls to say he won't be able to make it, followed by the Citroen 2CV car meet.

8.30pm The pub gets word that the main northern road, the A66, will be closed at 10.30pm. Anyone not planning to stay the night should leave.

9pm The Tan Hill Inn is ringing with laughter and everyone is in exceptionally good spirits.