Was it only last week that we were basking in warm spring sunshine? Now we are enduring rain, wind, snow, hail and frost.

Those searching for an explanation might be baffled by the fact that this miserable weather has arrived a full week after the Bank Holiday. But on further investigation the reason becomes clear.

It has nothing to do with cold fronts or April showers - and everything to do with white flannels and leather on willow. The cricket season started today.

Things could get worse. Yorkshire do not start their campaign until next week. We advise everyone to wait indoors with snow shovels at the ready until Michael Vaughan scores his first century.

see NEWS 'April showers turn to snow'

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.