People in the Chester area are being urged to brace themselves for freezing weather conditions this weekend as snow showers continue to affect the area.

The Met Office has issued active yellow warnings of snow and ice in Cheshire West and Chester for the next few days, and warn of travel disruption and difficult driving conditions.

Falling rain, hail and sleet will continue to affect Wales and western parts of England with accumulations of snow from the coast. Ice is also likely on untreated surfaces.

Public Health England (PHE) North West is also warning people to take care as they issue a Level 3 Cold Weather Alert across England.

People should take extra care when out and about

Level 3 alerts are given when severe weather is occurring, when average temperatures have dropped to 2°C or below, and/or when widespread ice and heavy snow is present.

Dr Rosemary McCann, Deputy Director for Health Protection, PHE North West has given some safety pointers.

“The Met Office says that many places are going to feel really cold for the next few days so it’s very important people take extra care when out and about," she said.

“It’s worth remembering that while most outdoor slips, trips and falls in weather like this are of those who are of working age, accidents can happen to anyone.

Take time to think about other people who may be vulnerable

“If you’re staying indoors have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm. Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a long term illness or are over 65, and check weather forecasts and plan your day around them.

“Also take some time to think about how the bad weather may affect your friends and family, particularly if they are older or very young or have pre-existing health conditions. These groups can be particularly vulnerable. Remember that older people may not go outside to the shops, to hospital appointments and so on when weather is bad, so think what you could do to help them.

“Although most of our advice on keeping warm and well in cold weather may seem like common sense, it’s important to remember that cold kills, even in places where the temperatures aren’t at their lowest.”