ELLESMERE Port residents are bracing themselves for a week-long winter snap as freezing temperatures and snow showers set in.

As The Pioneer went to press emergency services and council workers reported minimum disruption as roads including the A41 were gritted overnight.

The Met Office has issued a warning of severe or extreme weather for the region today (Wednesday). There is a moderate risk of heavy snow and icy roads.

Cheshire West and Chester Council says it is well supplied with salt and gritters will continue to maintain the major routes and that weather will be monitored continuously.

Waste collection services could be disrupted and residents are asked to follow the advice given below during periods of freezing weather:

Place your wheelie bins/boxes/bags out on your scheduled day as per your collection calendar

If your street is not collected on your scheduled collection day, leave your containers out

Where collections have not been made, due to poor road conditions, efforts will be made to return to collect at the earliest opportunity

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is also warning drivers to go out well prepared for any car journeys by taking warm clothing, anti-freeze and a torch, and to drive slowly.