GRITTERS were despatched onto East Lancashire's roads this afternoon with ice and snow forecast overnight and for the weekend.

Both Blackburn with Darwen and Lancashire County Council's teams were out treating main routes earlier than usual after forecasts of freezing weather, starting from mid-afternoon today.

Motorists were warned to watch out for ice on road surfaces.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for ice from 10am tomorrow to 6am on Sunday affecting the north and east of Lancashire, with heavy rain falling on freezing surfaces predicted to cause treacherous conditions. Some snow is also predicted over higher ground .

Lancashire County Council's highway boss Cllr Keith Iddon said: “It’s important that people leave extra time for their journeys, take care, and drive according to the conditions.

He added: “I’d urge people to check the weather and consider whether their journey is really necessary. If you feel that you do have to make the journey please check that your vehicle is in good condition and that you have suitable clothing and sufficient supplies in case you encounter any problems.

“We have over 2,600 grit bins and salt heaps across the county, and I’d ask people to make use of them to keep the roads safe, but to use the grit sparingly and responsibly – a little should go a long way."

Lancashire County Council has a fleet of 45 frontline gritters which can treat the 1,500 miles of the county council’s priority road network within around four hours, but may take longer in severe conditions.