Reports of a harsh winter allied with a fuel crisis has buoyed hopes of remaining part of the EC.

Remain campaigner Frank Anwalther said “We are cock-a-hoop at the prospect of Britain being made into an icy wasteland for three months. It is a matter of public record that the largest sector of the population who voted for Brexit were above pensionable age. A nice cold snap, allied to heating price rises means they won’t be able to crochet enough blankets to survive.”

Another Remainer, Wayne Fountain, added “Even those that manage to resist the cold will face potentially fatal peril from slips and trips on the icy pavements.”

“Meanwhile, our core support, those now aged between 18 and 25 will remain largely hale and hearty throughout the cold spell. To make doubly sure we would urge the young to do all they can. If you live near an elderly person who you know to be a leave voter, pop round every day to make sure their letter box is wedged open. Or kick in their cat flap. This will help ensure the inevitable second referendum next year is a shoo -in.”

Nigel Farage commented “Threats of a harsh winter are clear signs that the EC are running scared. We have seen off Iceland before and we shall do the same to Sweden and their chilly North Easterlies. Project Fear is back but again, they lie.

“Brexit will see a return to the halcyon days of balmy British winters with cricket on the green and a nice cool beer on the patio. At least for those of who can afford to spend it in Australia.”