THE region is bracing itself for snow, ice and more high winds over the weekend.

Gusts of up to 60mph caused chaos on the region's roads yesterday.

And forecasters are predicting further bad weather.

A Highways Agency spokes-man said: "The weather forecast for the next few days is for the strong winds to continue. There is also a risk of ice, frost and snow, especially over the Christmas weekend through to midday on Monday, December 27."

A Met Office spokesman said there was a reasonable chance snow would fall in the North-East and North Yorkshire on Christmas Day.

Yesterday, two lorries were blown over on the A1 in North Yorkshire near the A59 junction, causing northbound lanes to be closed for most of the morning.

Police also imposed a 50mph limit along the A1 in County Durham.

Drivers of high-sided vehicles on the A66 in County Durham and North Yorkshire were also advised to take care.

The Highways Agency is advising drivers to check for up-to-date information on weather and road conditions before they set off and during their journey.

Heavy traffic is expected on the A1 Western Bypass at Gateshead today with shoppers picking up last-minute presents.