'Exceptional' snowfall predicted in Buckinghamshire

Weather forecasters predict "exceptionally heavy snowfall"

Weather forecasters are warning that Buckinghamshire could see "exceptionally heavy snowfall" as blizzards move south.

Up to 30cm (12in) of snow is expected but there could be "in excess of 40cm (16in)", the Met Office has said.

Easyjet cancelled 15 flights from Luton Airport, which reopened at 0430 GMT after being shut because of the weather conditions in Bedfordshire.

Chiltern Railways also said it was running an amended timetable.

East Midlands Trains is currently running a normal train service on all key routes.

A spokesman said: "The majority of our services are running punctually and arrangements have been put in place for passengers unable to reach stations."

Hazardous conditions are being reported on the M40 motorway.

In Hertfordshire 138 schools are closed, 228 in Buckinghamshire, 81 out of 106 in Milton Keynes, 72 in Bedfordshire and 34 in Luton.

Police are advising motorists to travel only if absolutely necessary.

The Highways Agency said it had enough salt to maintain surfaces, but some local authorities, which look after smaller roads, have reported shortages.