POLICE in Essex have said some of the county's roads are now “virtually impassable” as snow continues to fall heavily this afternoon.

James Hore

POLICE in Essex have said some of the county's roads are now “virtually impassable” as snow continues to fall heavily this afternoon.

Officers have dealt with nearly 50-weather related incidents already today including “anti-social snowballing”.

In Colchester visibility has dropped as a fresh wave of snow clouds moved over the town at about 2pm.

Although there have been crashes on the county's roads, the force said that the number of collisions so far had been very low.

However, with the continuing snow some roads in the north and west of the county are said to be virtually impassable with Maldon experiencing motoring problems.

The county's dual carriageways in the south and the motorways are clear and running freely and a section of the A12 to the north of Witham has started to clear following difficulties this morning.

Operational commander, Chief Inspector Richard Phillibrown, said: “The weather forecast is for the snow to continue through until this evening when we will then experience freezing temperatures and ice-related problems begin to play their part.

“Our advice to people is not to travel unless absolutely necessary, with children who are off school asked to be considerate with their play in the snow.

“If anyone does have to take to the roads, then they should take a charged mobile telephone, a blanket and a hot drink.”