MOTORISTS have been warned to drive with extreme caution as temperatures as low as minus nine degrees are forecast for Swindon tonight.

Council workers gritted the roads twice yesterday but, despite this, some roads are likely to still be icy this morning.

Drivers have been asked to drive slowly, approach junctions with care and to allow extra time for their journeys into work.

As temperatures warm up throughout the morning the conditions should improve, so delaying non-essential journeys where possible will also help.

Councillor Mary Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for communities and place, said: “At temperatures of minus nine even the maximum salt levels put on the road network will begin to freeze.

"This is also further complicated by the amount of moisture and slush on the roads at the moment, which can effectively dilute the salt solution.

“Even during less extreme conditions, salt will only help to prevent the build-up of ice, so with conditions that we’re likely to see overnight it is imperative that drivers are extremely careful on their journeys tomorrow morning.

"Despite all the salt the teams have put on the roads, there will still be ice in places.

“The gritting team will continue to monitor the weather throughout the night to respond to any changes in the forecast.”

All of the council’s waste and recycling crews were out collecting refuse yesterday, but some were following different routes.

Residents are advised to ensure all bins or boxes are placed out for collection by 6.30am on their collection day as the teams will make every effort to get round.

The council has also taken the decision to cancel today's education transport service, purely on safety grounds. Passenger transport contractors and schools have been notified.

Parents are advised to check school websites and listen to local radio stations for information on school closures.