Soldiers have been drafted in to help as Kent battles with heavy snowfall.

The 36 Engineer Regiment, based at Invicta Barracks in Maidstone, have been called in to drive six Land Rovers to help Kent County Council deliver its meals on wheels to elderly people in remote parts of the county.

The 5th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland, based in Canterbury, have also provided a 4x4 truck and eight soldiers, who have been deployed at fire and rescue stations across the county, to assist fire crews called to rural areas.

Press officer Chris Fletcher said they were well trained to cope with just such an eventuality.

“We train for this sort of thing. It is not unheard of for us to be called on. We are there to provide assistance to the civilian authorities and emergency services as and when requested to do so.

Meanwhile police have repeated their advice to motorists not to travel unless absolutely necessary and check weather and travel information regularly.

Road conditions and travel information are available on Kent Police's website, and also on The Highways Agency website

For information on weather conditions visit the Met office website

Chief Inspector Andy Reeves from Kent Police said:

'We are currently working with partner agencies to deal with the difficulties people are facing in the severe weather we are experiencing.

"The force currently has access to 168 4x4 vehicles which are being used by officers around the county, patrolling the roads to ensure no-one is stranded without help for long periods of time and also to assist with the continuing policing needs for the county.

"Also, in case of worsening weather conditions, the military have responded to requests made and are providing additional 4x4 vehicles on a standby basis, at a number of locations around the county, should they be needed to assist Kent County Council or Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

"We would strongly advise people stay at home and avoid travelling if they are able to as the conditions in the county are severe and more snow has been forecast in the coming 24 hours.'

If travelling is unavoidable, police advise:

• Check the weather forecast and road conditions for your destination before you travel.
• Make sure you have full visibility before driving, taking time to de-mist and de-ice all windows.
• Poor weather conditions mean it can be harder for drivers to see, so use your lights.
• When the roads are wet and icy it can take twice as long to stop your vehicle, so slow down.
• In poor visibility be extra alert for hazards.
• Carry warm waterproof clothing, food, water and a torch in your vehicle in case weather conditions mean you have to stop.
• Make sure you have plenty of fuel for your journey before you set off.