Travel warning from West Yorkshire emergency services as snow hits Leeds

Heavy snow overnight has covered Leeds and West Yorkshire, making roads dangerous and difficult to drive on.

Bus services across Leeds have been disrupted, with First saying most of its services will only be operating on main roads.

The West Yorkshire Prepared Forum, which is made up of emergency services, councils, travel and utilities bodies, has urged people not to travel today.

They tweeted: "Heavy snow across the region this morning. Please only head out if absolutely necessary.

"If you do NEED to go out, make sure you're prepared by completing a WINTER driving checklist."

The snow has wrought havoc on the M62, with a jacknifed lorry blocking lanes.

A Met Office amber weather warning for heavy snow is in place until 1pm, with heavy rain forecast afterwards.

West Yorkshire Prepared Forum's tips for driving in snow and ice:

- Only travel if absolutely necessary.

- You must be able to see, so clear ALL snow and ice from windows, mirrors and the roof (to stop it slipping onto the windscreen when braking!)

-Wear comfortable, dry shoes for driving.

- Drive carefully. Pull away in 2nd gear where possible, low revs and a gentle right foot so the wheels don’t spin.

- Prevent your windscreen misting up by cleaning it with shaving foam

- Stick to main gritted routes where possible and stay off closed roads.

- Plan well ahead when driving to avoid having to stop or slow down on hills.

- Drive slowly around bends, where loss of control is a risk.

- Reduce speed early and gently, use a low gear and engine breaking, try not to be heavy on the brakes so you don’t slide.

- Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front, stopping distances can increase by ten times dry weather distances.

- Gritted roads can still be slippery - always drive for the weather conditions.