The snow gates on the A939 Tomintoul to Corgarff road in Moray were opened again on both sides of the Lecht for the first time since Wednesday.
However, motorists were still warned to drive with care due to drifts on either side of the route, while road crews were also dispatched to the A941 Dufftown to Huntly road at Upper Cabrach to clear residual snow off the carriageway.
All pupils were back at class yesterday with some having enjoyed three days off school as the storm wreaked havoc in some parts of the region.
Despite the worst of the weather passing, forecasters have continued to warn of snow in the higher parts of the area.
Moray Council chief executive Roddy Burns explained he was “impressed” with how the region had faced the challenge of the awful weather.
He said: “As in other times when we have endured emergencies and difficult circumstances, the staff have always come through.
“I know many of them themselves endured longer and more difficult journeys to work to make sure services were maintained.”
Snow gates on the A939 open for the first time in five days
