Commuters faced travel chaos after snow and freezing temperatures

Sub-zero temperatures are expected across central and southern England - plummeting to -7C in some areas.

The rest of the UK is forecast higher temperatures but with rain and snow sweeping in from the north overnight.

The Highways Agency says drivers should have a winter weather kit in their vehicles, including warm clothes, a hot drink, de-icer, a torch and a spade.

The agency says roads should be used with care.

"All road users are asked to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they set out, and if the weather is bad, drivers are advised to delay their journey if possible until conditions improve," the agency states.

In pictures: Frozen Britain

Kent has experienced its worst winter weather in 10 years in recent weeks - with the Army being called in to help the emergency services struggle through the snow.

Gurkha soldiers remain on standby with 4x4 vehicles.

Road closures, including the M20, continue to cause problems, with motorists being diverted on to smaller roads.

Around 200 homes have had their electricity cut off and 464 schools across the county have been closed.

Ian Cameron, of the Met Office, said the wintry weather will be severe on Friday.

"Disruption to travel networks is a concern, especially as the bad weather will coincide with the Friday morning rush hour for some areas," he said.

HAVE YOUR SAY The roads I used to get to work this morning were like skating rinks - none of them had been gritted Carol, Basildon, UK Send us your comments

In north-east Scotland, almost 80 schools were closed or partially closed on Wednesday, although most roads were open.

At least three people were injured in a series of road accidents, with one driver having to be freed after becoming trapped in his car near Udny.

A police spokesman warned drivers to take their time on the roads and keep their speed down.

Schools in parts of Leeds and in northern Yorkshire were closed after heavy snow fell on Wednesday morning.

Motorists reported traffic chaos across Yorkshire after driving conditions caused gridlock on main routes into and around towns and cities.