Overnight snow showers and black ice in West Devon made driving conditions hazardous during today’s morning commute time.

Some schools, including Tavistock and Princetown primary schools are delaying opening tomorrow (Tuesday) morning due to forecast icy roads expected to delay staff, pupils and school buses.

Most of the area was treated to a light snow covering at the weekend with Dartmoor especially transformed into a white winter wonderland with grazing ponies and sheep undeterred.

The snow then froze and the combination of ice and heavy frost created dangerous roads. West Devon Police have advised against unnecessary travel as ice and frozen snow/sleet has made many rural roads hazardous to drive on today (Monday).

Most commuters today drove sensibly to the conditions and extra time was needed to get to work on time as traffic slowed, especially on rural B-roads. Temperatures reached down to minus 2C in the countryside, below higher moorland.

The weather warnings from the UK Health Security Agency extend to the health of vulnerable and old people with existing long-term conditions and people are advised to keep an eye on neighbours and others who might need help.

A Met Office yellow weather warning for low temperatures, ice and snow remains until 12 noon today (Monday). A second yellow weather warning is in place from 12noon today until 11am on Tuesday (January 6).

Motorists are advised to check the forecast and road conditions before heading out, pack essential clothes, food, water, a phone charger, anti-freeze and winter screen wash.