Cumbrian motorists urged to be cautious as snow thaws

Roads quickly became impassable in Cumbria due to heavy snowfall

People in Cumbria have been urged to remain cautious as snow which hit the county over the weekend thaws.

Thousands of properties were left without electricity, cars were stranded on impassable roads and schools were forced to shut.

Main routes have since reopened and power has been restored in most places.

A major incident declared by police has now ended, but with temperatures forecast to dip below zero many weather-related hazards remain.

A spokeswoman for Cumberland Council said its gritting crews would be out in force.

She advised the public to "plan ahead and take extra caution when driving".

Councillor Denise Rollo added: "The drop in temperatures and difficult road conditions presents motorists with a number of issues that make drivers, cyclists and pedestrians more vulnerable.

"It is vital to ensure your vehicle is prepared for the winter and to be aware of slippery road surfaces as well as taking a supply of warm clothes and food on all journeys."

Drivers have been warned to take additional precautions

Superintendent Andy Wilkinson of Cumbria Constabulary said road conditions are expected to remain challenging throughout the week and people should drive with "extreme care and attention", allowing extra time for their journeys.

More than 30cm of snow fell in some areas of Cumbria at the weekend, far more than authorities had anticipated.

The snowfall quickly rendered roads impassable and led to hundreds abandoning their vehicles.

Power lines were damaged, resulting in no electricity for thousands of households, and many of the county's schools were closed.

Emergency services, highways crews and communities worked together to tackle the impact.

Superintendent Wilkinson added: "This had a significant impact on those within our communities and those visiting the county.

"Long hours have been worked by many people to keep people in Cumbria safe, which is what has been achieved."