WHILE most workers were dreading the daily commute as the “Beast from the East” brought snowy chaos – Circus Skills expert Stuart Priest just strapped on his skis.

Stuart, 52, got envious looks from commuters queuing in the icy gridlocks around York as he whizzed by on his cross-country skis.

“Motorists couldn’t believe their eyes as I went past, but I am the sensible one,” said Stuart, who launched his Circus Skills business recently.

“York doesn’t usually have ideal piste conditions so it I was really hoping the snow would be good enough to ski on. Piste conditions were excellent.”

Other modes of transport he could employ to get to work include walking on his hands or riding his unicycle, he can also balance on a slackline.

“I’m not convinced they would be good options,” he said. “Skiing is all about balance and coordination and was the fastest option today. I am hoping the snow will stay for a few more.”

Stuart usually makes his 1.5-mile commute across the historic city from Scarborough Terrace to the Hiscox Business Club in Peasholme Green by conventional bicycle. But this time his skis were safely locked up in the bike store.

Circus Skills teaches schoolchildren about balance and coordination without the need for team games during PE lessons.