A survey by Birmingham and Solihull Chamber of Commerce (BCI) members has shown that despite the Midlands experiencing deep freeze conditions, most employees have fought their way into work.

President Paul Bassi praised British determination in helping to keep the wheels of industry turning. He said: "It is estimated that bad weather conditions could have cost the economy billions of pounds but perhaps because of its already fragile status, businesses are fighting back."

Phil Pemble, Pertemps People Development Group said: "Birmingham City Council has done an excellent job in ensuring the main routes have been salted and should be congratulated."

Clayton Shaw, Operations Manager at Sampad South Asian Arts, based at the MAC Centre in Cannon Hill Park, is experiencing a different predicament.  He said: "The main problem - albeit minor, is that we have young people throwing snowballs up at our windows to scare the staff."

Clive Stone who runs Redcliffe Catering said only 11 delegates out of an expected 60 turned up for an important conference today. He said: "This will obviously have an impact on my business."

Solicitor, Kate Canty said: "All staff have turned in, from the far reaches of Coventry, Balsall Common and Tamworth." But she laments school closures saying: "Yesterday we had one member of staff who had to leave in the morning as her son's school closed early and she had no one to look after him."

Mr. Bassi said: School closures will mean that many parents will be unable to work, even from home which will create a significant cost to businesses which are no doubt running very tight ships at the moment. 

"It is crucial that employers plan for these eventualities. Many of the businesses who have completed our survey seem to suggest that where there's a will there's a way to making it in to work."