Gritters were out across Shropshire and Mid Wales today as temperatures plummeted below freezing – with forecasters predicting the region could see some light flurries of snow.

The mercury dropped as low as minus 3C (27F) last night and forecasters say it will be colder still tonight, with the temperatures shown on thermometers around the county predicted to dip to minus 5C (23F).

Forecasters said there was also a possibility of some light flurries of snow falling on Shropshire later today, with the chance of the odd flake tonight as well.

Shropshire and Mid Wales is expected to miss the snow tomorrow however, with forecasters predicting a dry, bright but cold day.

• Have you seen the first snowflake of the winter? Send your pictures to newsroom@shropshirestar.co.uk

With possible snow showers on the way, the Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia is urging road users to take extra steps to make sure they stay as safe as possible on the roads.

Katy Jenkins, at the Safer Roads Partnership, said: “We recommend that drivers make sure their vehicle is in good working order before setting off on a journey.

“For example, check tyres have plenty of tread and are inflated to the correct pressure.

“Preparing for the journey is also important so drivers should make sure all windows, mirrors and lights are free from ice and snow and they should also make sure they have an emergency kit in the car in case of a breakdown or delay.

“Road handling changes so take extra care when making manoeuvres. It takes longer to stop on icy and wet roads so allow more time to slow down and stay back from the vehicle in front.”

Nationally, DIY chain B&Q reported Wellington boots were flying off the shelves, with sales up by 388 per cent on last year’s figure. Bosses also said the store had stocked up on grit.

The AA yesterday said it rescued a “handful” of cars stuck in snow in the Aberdeenshire and Moray areas, while call-outs were up significantly in North Yorkshire and Newcastle.

It said it had attended about 7,500 breakdowns nationwide, with about 1,000 calls coming in every hour by yesterday afternoon. It predicted c­alls could increase by half.

By Wayne Beese