Main routes in Dorset cleared after heavy snow fall

Conditions have improved across Dorset's major roads after heavy snow fall.

The county saw up to 20cm (8in) in parts on high ground during Monday causing travel problems for motorists.

Gritters managed to clear major routes but remote parts were still treacherous, the authorities warned.

Bournemouth Airport reopened on Monday evening but passengers were advised to contact their airline for information on their flights.

Pedestrians were advised not to walk on treated roads in a bid to avoid walking on icy pavements.

On Monday, heavy snow fall hit Dorset after the Met Office issued a severe weather warning.

Portland Coastguard scrambled its helicopter to transfer a critically ill seven-year-old girl to Southampton General Hospital.

Heavy snow delayed the helicopter for more than hour before a route through the conditions was found.

The old Sherborne Road near Giant's Head had become impassable but the A37 in the west of the county along with the A35 near Bridport. Both were later reopened.

Farmers using snow ploughs fitted to their tractors were drafted in to assist gritting vehicles.

South West Trains has been running a revised timetable aimed at giving passengers "greater certainty" about journeys.

Passengers were advised to check the firm's website for the latest information.

It added it intended to return to a normal timetable from Wednesday.