Millions of people were due to join the Christmas getaway today on what was expected to be the busiest day of the festive season on Britain’s roads.
The RAC predicted 18 million cars would be on the road today, with 3pm set to be the busiest time. Thousands of Shropshire people were preparing to travel across the UK, while others joined the record 3.5 million Britons who were jetting abroad.
Jackie Whittingham, of Oak Travel in Wellington, said: “We have been busier than usual this year, although the majority of people have booked quite a long time ago.
“It’s an exceptionally busy time for people travelling to see families and friends.
“For the winter sun, Dubai has been very popular but people have friends and family all over the world so it can be anywhere.”
As people prepared for long journeys, police in Telford today warned people to be patient.
Constable Pete Simmonds, spokesman for Telford police, said: “We would advise people to leave plenty of time for their journeys at such a busy time of year.
“Motorists must drive according to the conditions and should expect heavy traffic. People should plan their journey and be patient at busy times and they will get to enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.”
The Highways Agency suspended roadworks on a number of motorway and major A-road sites in England over the holiday period, but roadworks remain on some key routes, including the M1 and M25, for safety reasons.
About 16 million cars are expected to be on the roads on the second busiest days – December 27 and 28 – while Christmas Day will be relatively traffic-free, with only four million cars likely to be out and about.
The RAC has forecast that rising fuel prices will mean a reduction in road usage this Christmas. Between today and January 2, a total of 1.2 million passengers are expected to leave from London’s Heathrow airport, while Birmingham International was expected to attract 130,000.
Talk of milder weather has prompted bookmakers to lengthen the odds on a White Christmas, as weather experts predicted rain coming in from the west tomorrow but said milder weather was expected on Christmas Eve with temperatures reaching as high as 9-10C (48-50F).
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