Drivers are warned to take extra care in snowy conditions

The worst of the weather passed down the east coast on Sunday night and early Monday morning.

Several major roads in North Yorkshire were either blocked by drifting snow and abandoned vehicles or described by police as treacherous.

The A171 between Whitby and Scarborough was closed as cars and lorries blocked the carriageway and the A169 at Blue Bank south of Whitby was impassable.

Police warning

The hazardous conditions were blamed by police for an accident on the A170 at Sutton Bank, which officers said was passable only for four-wheel drive vehicles.

The resort of Scarborough had also experienced a "spectacular" hailstorm overnight, a North Yorkshire Police spokesman said.

"Road conditions are very poor in many areas, especially the North York Moors," he added.

"Drivers should not set out on journeys unless they are essential."

In East Yorkshire, the worst-affected area was between Bridlington and Driffield, with lorries blocking the B1253 at Boynton and cars abandoned at Nafferton off the A614.

Forecasters have said the pre-Christmas cold snap will subside by Tuesday and there will be milder temperatures on Christmas Day.

Extra equipment

A spokesman for AA Roadwatch said: "When people wake up to snow they should allow extra time for their journeys, especially on minor routes."

A spokesman for the Highways Agency said: "Drivers are advised to check for up-to-date information on weather before they set off, and during their journey."

Among the advice for drivers is to take care around gritters and snowploughs and remember that it can take 10 times longer to stop in icy conditions.

Other advice is to manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration.

When driving in snow, drivers are advised to make sure they are equipped with warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade.