ALTHOUGH it’s likely to remain cold for a while yet, there is a chance of slightly milder temperatures creeping in by the weekend, according to forecasters.

Weatherquest forecaster Jim Bacon said: “It’ll stay cold and probably quite frosty for the rest of the week and there could be the additional light snow flurry.

“It’s not too bad in terms of snowfall. It’ll be difficult cold weather in the early mornings and late evenings.

“It’ll get a little bit milder during the weekend.

“People have just got to be aware that the roads could get frosty at night.”

Meanwhile, garages have seen a sharp increase in demand for winter tyres compared to this time last year.

David Chapman, director of Autofit in Britannia Road, said: “Demand has definitely increased. It’s risen five to ten per cent as word gets around and they are becoming more popular.

“Summer tyres at this time of year don’t work and winter tyres really do improve the all-round ability, handling and grip of the car. The difference is incredible.”

Hadleigh Tyre Services in Woodbridge Road have also seen a major increase in winter tyre sales.

Service reception manager Glen Root said: “We’ve seen an increase of about 50pc from last year. A lot of people are hearing they’re out there and that they’re getting better – which they are.”

Branch manager Daz Wheeler of Universal Tyre and Autocentres in Dunlop Road added: “People seem to have realised winter tyres are the way to go in the colder weather and tyre manufacturers have had a big push on them this year.

“Our sales are 50-60pc up on last year. Some of the tyres with ordinary straight grooves in, once they’re filled with snow it’s basically like running on a slick tyre.

“We would recommend that people put winter tyres on from November to March time.”