MOTORISTS are being warned to take care on the region's roads this morning because wintry conditions are making them hazardous.

Durham police has said that snow and ice is affecting parts of County Durham and Darlington this morning, while freezing temperatures have also affected roads in North Yorkshire.

Traffic problems due to icy roads were reported in the Weardale area.

Drivers are also reminded to ensure vehicles windscreens are cleared properly before setting out this morning and are encouraged to allow extra time for their journeys.

Yellow weather warnings have been issued for snow and ice expected in the region today and tomorrow, especially on high ground.

The Met Office said in the Yorkshire Dales there was a “medium risk” of blizzards in the Yorkshire Dales and a high likelihood of “severe chill effect” which with prolonged exposure can lead to frostbite or hypothermia without proper protective gear. 

Emergency organisations in the North-East and North Yorkshire have warned drivers to take extra care and also warned pedestrians to watch out for icy pavements.

The Northern Echo:

Yesterday Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) were called to rescue a hypothermic runner in the Spine Race. The race, billed as “Britain’s most brutal race” sees competitors walk and run through the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines, to the Cheviot Hills and the Scottish borders, through gruelling wintery conditions and climbs.

The competitor was evacuated by the event’s safety crew whilst the rescue team were mobilising.