And it's now been over three weeks since a lot of housebound elderly folk in Glenrothes have been able to venture out for their messages.

While roads are cleared, many pavements are still icy.

Fife Labour spokesperson councillor Mark Hood has asked residents to "be good neighbours" as the snow and ice continues.

He said: "The weather continues to be very wintry, and at times like this it's natural to focus on staying warm and cosy in our own homes. But, it is more important now than ever to look out for your neighbours and check they are OK.

"In many parts of Fife, the roads and pavements are still inches deep in snow and ice, which makes it very difficult for some people to venture out to get to local shops and services. A simple offer to do some shopping or to clear snow from the path could make a huge difference for those less able." Cllr Hood added: "The army of staff and volunteers from local groups are doing great work, but I am asking everyone to be a bit more vigilant and be a good neighbour."

Anne Toye, from the Glenrothes Age Concern day care centre in Scott Road said the facilities had been forced to close because of the snowfalls and expressed concern about keeping in touch with the elderly.

Community leader Davie Nelson revealed he has been inundated at the Auchmuty Community flat with people struggling to cope with their rising heating bills.

He said: ''I have had elderly people in here crying. It's quite sad and hard to take when you see elderly people breaking down in front of you.
''Last week we had two people who had to declare themselves bankrupt because of their bills. It's going to get worse, I can't see the situation improving. People just don't have the money."

Tricia Marwick MSP for Glenrothes has also expressed her concern for the welfare of the town's elderly residents and appealed to people to contact heating helplines if they were experiencing difficulties.
The MSP also this week paid a visit to Age Concern in Glenrothes to offer her assistance to the centre.

If you, or you think someone else needs help, it's okay to call:
THE GAZETTE: 753205 OR 752289
GLENROTHES AGE CONCERN: 756316
ENERGY ASSISTANCE PACKAGE:
0800 512 012 (SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT)
GLENROTHES POLICE: 418600
CITIZENS RIGHTS : 0845 1400 095
AUCHMUTY COMMUNITY FLAT: 562999
NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24