Snow causes disruption across Lincolnshire

Snow is continuing to cause disruption across Lincolnshire, with more than 80 schools closed and driving conditions described as hazardous.

The A157 is closed between Burgh-on-Bain and Hallington due to a jack-knifed lorry and there are also problems on the A631 and A153.

On Monday night, police and a local farmer rescued about 60 vehicles stranded near Louth.

Further snow is expected during the day and into the early hours of Wednesday.

Some of the drivers stuck on the A153 at Louth on Monday night had to wait for about five hours while the road was cleared.

Local farmer Alan Searby, who helped tow vehicles clear, said the conditions were the worst he had seen since severe weather in 1963 and the early 1980s.

On Monday, Lincolnshire Police said they dealt with more than 30 snow-related incidents on the roads. Most were minor, though one driver was killed when his Land Rover went into a ditch at Ruskington Fen near Billinghay.

Police believe that icy road conditions at the time could have played a part in the incident.

Driving conditions in some areas are described as dangerous

The county's east coast has been particularly hard hit by the wintry weather, with snow and ice causing problems in the Lincolnshire Wolds around Horncastle and out to Skegness and Mablethorpe.

Lincolnshire Police said roads were mostly passable, with the exception of Spring Hill in Lincoln, but urged motorists to take great care, especially on non-major routes.

Lincolnshire County Council has set up a non-emergency winter helpline for anyone needing weather-related assistance.

The service is available for anyone who has been unable to replenish essential food, medication or fuel supplies because of the difficult conditions.

David Powell, head of emergency planning, said: "In the first instance I would ask everyone to be a good neighbour.

"We would ask everybody to check on elderly and vulnerable people in your community who you may not have seen around recently and may need help.

"If you are in urgent need ring the dedicated helpline number and if there is a risk to life and a genuine emergency please ring 999."