DRIVERS are urged to take care on the roads as heavy snow is forecast to hit the region.

The Essex Highways fleet of 60 winter gritting lorries will be taking to the county's roads at midday today, Monday Jan 14, in preparation for the cold snap.

County Councillor Derrick Louis, cabinet member for Highways and Transportation said: “I am urging all residents to travel carefully today with the heavy snowfall we are currently expecting.

"Our gritters will be out across the county but please still take extra caution, particularly on pavements and side roads.

"I also advise residents to check the latest weather forecasts and travel news before they set out."

Residents can keep up to speed with the Essex Highways gritting lorries online, with a new live tracking system available at www.essex.gov.uk/highways.

Each gritting lorry has been fitted with a GPS tracker, which allows their movements to be tracked in real-time, allowing residents to track the gritting lorries as they go along their specified routes.

Residents can also receive the latest gritting updates by following @Essex_Travel on Twitter.

The website also features tips and advice on winter driving and how to clear snow and ice safely.