Gareth O'Callaghan: My home alone Christmas turned out to be a perfect day

Being snowbound that year gave me a glimpse inside a perfect world that was free of all distractions, or the false attractions that the modern Christmas has become

'I can still recall looking out my bedroom window at first light that morning at snow that was at least 3ft deep in places. All the familiar landmarks were invisible. I was trapped with myself, and no one else.'

Some years ago, as a result of a heavy snow storm which shut down much of the country for almost a week, I found myself home alone for Christmas. 

Roads were closed, footpaths were impassable, public transport ground to a halt. Even walking to local shops was ill-advised. It was unlikely the emergency services would reach you if you did have an accident, so the advice was stay inside.