Commuter chaos as snow brings UK to a standstill

Extreme weather conditions have brought roads and motorways to a halt across the country, while passengers have been trapped on a train in Kent for nine hours overnight

Thousands of people are expected to be taking snow days today, as excessive snow brings much of the UK to a standstill, with commuters attempting to get in and out of London experiencing travel chaos.

Icy roads and motorways across Kent and Surrey came to a halt as drivers attempted to get home last night, while dozens of motorists had to abandon their cars in Lincolnshire, and there was gridlock on the M25.

The Dartford Bridge was also closed, as authorities struggled to cope with the earliest big freeze we've seen in years.

And train services were little better. Thousands of workers had to fight to get onto overground trains leaving the capital, with some forced to spend the night in London hotels.

Hundreds of passengers have had to be rescued from trains travelling between London and Kent - while one train load of commuters were trapped on the Sevenoaks line at Orpington overnight for more than nine hours.

Many Southern and Southeastern rail services this morning were severly disrupted, and subject to cancellations.

Kent police are advising people not to travel today unless completely necessary, and to stear well clear of the icy roads.

Gatwick airport is also closed, and is expected to remain closed until 6am tomorrow, as is Edinburgh - where some passengers have been waiting for flights for up to 4 days. Severe delays can also be expected at Heathrow, Standstead and London City airport.

Hundreds of schools across England will also be closed today.

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