Devon has seen a very heavy snow fall since the early hours and most parts of the county are affected The Devon and Cornwall Police website has this advice for motorists.

Police, the Highways Agency and Devon County Council are all reiterating the advice not to travel.

While some roads are passable with extreme care the driving conditions are treacherous and only the most essential journeys should be taken.

While the heavy snow fall west of the county is due to begin easing shortly the snow is now likely to cause more problems in East and Mid Devon.

The Haldon Hill severe weather plan has been implemented and despite the heavy intensity and volume of snow the plan is working well.

HGVs have been stopped at junction 31 of the M5 and at Chudleigh and police have set up a control point near to Haldon Hill which will allow snowploughs and gritters through both Haldon and Telegraph Hills so that traffic will be able to move slowly shortly.

Supt Nigel Boulton said: “We would urge drivers not to travel. The road network is treacherous throughout the county and as soon as vehicles reach any kind of incline they will be in difficulty. The Police, Highways Agency and Devon County Council have all been working together throughout the night and into the early hours and we are continuing to prioritise clearing major routes and ensuring those in an emergency can receive the help they need.”

Motorists are reminded of the following advice:

•    Avoid unnecessary journeys. If you have to travel, drive according to the conditions;

•    Never assume a road has been salted. Remember that in extreme cold even salting will not stop ice from forming;

•    Allow additional time for your journey and reduce your speed;

•    If you have vulnerable or elderly neighbours, think about how they could possibly be helped through the cold spell;

•    Listen to local radio for updates on current weather conditions.