Motorists in south Essex slipped and slithered to work today as the first snow of winter caused chaos on the roads.

Gritters were out all night trying to ensure a smooth passage to work, but freezing temperatures well into the morning rush-hour meant some of their work was in vain.

Preparing for snow - gritters load up at the Barleylands depot to help keep the main roads clear Picture: TERENCE BUNCH

The A127 and A13 were particularly badly hit after several centimetres of snow fell overnight, compounded by black ice and a frost which hardened the snow into a virtual skating rink.

Weathermen warned there was more to come, with snow expected on and off during today and more significant falls tonight and early tomorrow.

There were numerous minor accidents on the roads of south Essex, but police reported no serious incidents despite rapping motorists for not taking it easy in the treacherous conditions.

A lorry fire on the QE2 Bridge at Thurrock brought rush hour traffic to a standstill and police say scores of minor incidents occurred because drivers ignored the adverse weather conditions.

PC Peter Harris, from Laindon road traffic unit, said: "We have seen dozens of cars in ditches and skewed across roads because people are driving like idiots. They are just not taking any notice of what is going on.

"People are driving with snow piled up on their windows and driving at the same speeds they would normally drive. Gritters have been out all night and that has helped but you need cars to travel over the grit to make it effective and that can take time."

Published Tuesday, January 7, 2003

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