ONE of the warmest autumns on record came to an abrupt end yesterday when the first winter snow fell across the region.

Hazardous road conditions, howling winds and freezing temperatures signalled the arrival of winter following the mildest October since 1659.

Snow ploughs were called out in Northumberland early yesterday when the A68 near Carter Bar and the A67 in Allendale became blocked.

The A66 transpennine route and the A689 at Cowshill, in Weardale, were only passable with extreme caution.

It is expected that the freezing conditions will continue today. Gritters have been placed on standby.

A spokesman for Durham Police said: "Winter is upon us and we would urge all drivers to take extra care.

"Check your lights are working, leave plenty of distance from the driver in front, and drive with a speed that matches the conditions."

Meanwhile, 88-year-old amateur weatherman Bill Foggitt, from Thirsk, North Yorkshire, predicted more of the same.

He said: "Up until now it's been a very mild summer, which will balance out into a very cold start to winter, probably right through the first half. It's definitely going to be a very cold, severe winter, but that means winter won't linger on."

Peter Sloss, from the Met Office, said the snowfall was typical November weather, but may not have been what people were expecting.

He said: "The snow and low temperatures mark a return to more seasonal weather but after the warm October we enjoyed it will be a shock to the system for many people."

Britain's biggest motoring organisation the AA was bracing itself for an increased number of call outs.

A spokesman said: "The first cold snap usually results in quite a number of smaller bumps.

"Darker mornings also place a greater strain on car batteries and many of them fail at the most inconvenient time."

The AA advised drivers to take extra care on icy roads and allow a few minutes extra to get to work.

Weathermen are predicting higher temperatures for the weekend as the low pressure system moves away. Sunday should be sunny with only a gentle breeze