POLICE are warning drivers to take care as temperatures start to plummet this evening.

Widespread snow fall led to chaos on the roads in and around Swindon today and on top of that the Met Office has issued a warning for ice.

A Wiltshire Police spokesman said: "Although major routes will be gritted there are many minor roads and country lanes which won't be.

"As a result, we are asking people to drive carefully on all routes and to try, where possible, to avoid country lanes and untreated roads which can be particularly hazardous in icy conditions.

“We would encourage drivers to check the local weather forecast before setting out, too.

"Today, we saw a number of collisions at junctions, in particular, where people are trying to stop as if the conditions are normal and dry; when the roads are wet and icy it can take twice as long to stop your vehicle, so please remember to slow down and plan well ahead of a junction so you slowly come to a halt just before or as you get to the junction."

Road users are urged to check their car, the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off, ensure their vehicles are properly de-iced and de-misted and carry emergency items like a sleeping bag, food, water and a torch in the car in case the weather conditions mean they have to stop.

They should also have hi vis clothing, make sure they have plenty of fuel and have their phone fully charged.

The advice is also to use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. If the car starts to skid, gently ease off the accelerator and avoid braking. If braking is necessary, pump the brakes.