The covers have been removed from the Welford Road pitch ahead of Leicester Tigers' big match with Sale Sharks today.

The MacLeod dome and frost sheets, which had been protecting the pitch from the sub-zero temperatures of recent days, were removed this morning to reveal an excellent playing surface.

Temperatures at Welford Road were around 3C at midday as the gates opened for the sold-out Aviva Premiership clash.

Charles Rayner, Tigers head of stadium operations, said: "The covers were removed before noon and the pitrch is frost free. It is in excellent condition.”

Teams had removed snow and ice from the pitch and stadium surrounds by Christmas Eve with the help of main club sponsor Caterpillar, Breedon Aggregates and Leicester City Council.

Rock salt has been applied to the terraces, footpaths and walkways to safeguard against further low temperatures.