There is no immediate sign of a thaw

Spokeswoman Kate Caskie said: "It's very very frightening. We're just dreading the day when we come into work in the morning and one of our vendors doesn't turn up because he's died during the night and we really, really hope that's not going to happen."

With weather experts forecasting further heavy snow into the New Year, police once again urged drivers to take extreme care.

While the main roads have stayed open, some side routes have proved impassable.

Police were called to deal with a 10-car pile-up on the M77 on Saturday morning and said some minor accidents resulted from drivers failing to clear their windscreens of snow.

Rail services in and out of Glasgow experienced severe disruprion on Saturday, with a greatly redced service on some routes.

'Common sense'

While Scotlands airports were operating normally inbound easyJet flights were subject to delays because of ice on the aircraft.

As preparations got under way for Sunday's Hogmanay celebrations, revellers were urged to use their "common sense" and wrap up warm when out in the arctic conditions.

Police and the Scottish Executive have issued basic guidance on keeping safe and warm.

Deputy Minister for Justice, Iain Gray, said that although the New Year was a time for "letting your hair down", common sense should not go at the window.

Rail services in Glasgow were affected

His message was levelled in particular at the 100,000 people expected to attend Edinburgh's annual street party.

Unlike recent years, it has been predicted temperatures will be well below freezing.

David Strang, assistant chief constable of Lothian and Borders Police, said: "It looks as if this Hogmanay is going to be a really cold one. We want people to enjoy themselves and be safe."

Joe Aitken, events manager for Glasgow Council's Cultural and Leisure Services Department, said safe rather than stylish clothing should be worn at the party in the city centre.

"To keep out the worst of the elements, we strongly recommend fleecy jackets, warm leggings or trousers, cosy hats and gloves and practical shoes," he said.