Cold snap causing road problems in north of Scotland

The snow has caused traffic delays, including on the A96 near Aberdeen

Overnight snow and ice in the north east of Scotland have made driving conditions "treacherous".

Grampian Police said most routes had been affected by the wintry weather.

The A93 Crathie to Cairnwell road was closed as a result, with poor conditions also reported on the A96 between Inverurie and Aberdeen.

The Met Office later issued a severe snow and ice warning for Grampian, the Highlands, Orkney and Shetland, Angus, East Lothian and the Borders.

A jack-knifed lorry closed the A920 Dufftown to Huntly road. Northern Constabulary said snow and ice was also affecting Caithness and Sutherland.

Rush-hour journeys into the Aberdeen area were taking motorists far longer than usual.

Police reported there had been several minor collisions.

A Grampian Police spokesman said: "On lower ground there are large amounts of surface water, which has turned to ice in some areas.

"Inland, on higher ground, roads are badly affected with snow. Most are passable with care. Driving conditions are however described as treacherous."

Motorists were urged to take extra care.

Forecasters expect the cold snap to continue - and worsen - over coming days.