Snow causes traffic problems across North

Motorists across Northern Ireland faced treacherous driving conditions this morning as a result of overnight snow and high winds.

Lorries ground to a halt on the Belfast to Larne A8 early yesterday, leading to three-mile tail backs in both directions, while long delays were reported on the M1 heading into Belfast and the A1 to Hillsborough.

The Glenshane Pass, which had been closed around 6.30pm last night, reopened this morning with a warning from police that it was passable but only with ''extreme care''.

Heavy snowfall in the Glengormley area led to traffic delays at the Sandyknowes roundabout on the outskirts of north Belfast.

Meanwhile, one person has been seriously injured in a road accident involving a car and a lorry south of the border and the main Newry to Dublin road has been closed. Diversions are in place.

There was also an accident involving a snow plough and a second vehicle on the Roguery Road between Toomebridge and Ballymena last night.

A security alert prevented the gritting of roads in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, and driving conditions this morning are hazardous.

Other areas badly affected include Newry in Co Down, Newtownhamilton and Markethill in Co Armagh.

Ards borough council has said there will be no refuge collection today and ferry services from Belfast have also been cancelled, while there have been delays on the rail network.

Several schools have also had to close.

The Met Office has warned that the adverse conditions could last for another two days.