Weather problems continue

Heavy snow and freezing temperatures will continue to cause disruption

Heavy snow and freezing temperatures will continue to cause disruption in Rochdale Borough and people are being warned the difficulties will continue.

Temperatures dropped as low as -6C overnight. Forecasters have warned people of icy roads and pavements this morning.

Public transport bosses advised passengers of limited services this morning.

Police have advised motorists to only travel if it is absolutely necessary. They also called on people to only dial 999 in a genuine emergency.

The North West Ambulance Service declared a "major incident."

The service's deputy chief executive Bob Williams said: "We are having to stringently prioritise all of our 999 calls and despatch our resources to life-threatening cases only.

"We would like to stress the urgency for people to stay indoors unless it is absolutely necessary."

He advised people in need of medical advice to contact NHS Direct.

Hundreds of schools are closed:

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/34761/schools-announce-wednesday-closures-updated-915pm