by Anna White

awhite@thekmgroup.co.uk

Workers are urged to start their commute home early tonight as weather forecasts predict more snow.

The warning from Kent Police comes as weather conditions in mid Kent are expected to worsen this afternoon (Wednesday).

Chief Superintendent Alasdair Hope said: "People should consider their safety and decide if their journey is really necessary.

"If you do travel make sure you have the right provisions for emergencies, and if you are already at work you should give serious consideration to getting home before conditions get worse this afternoon."

Last night's snowfall led to treacherous driving conditions in Maidstone and surrounding areas, causing people to become trapped in their vehicles for up to ten hours.

Public transport has also been affected with Southeastern train travellers facing major delays.

At least 26 schools in the Maidstone area have closed for today.

During the past 24 hours, the police control centre has experienced a high amount of calls from people in snow-related emergencies.

The force contact and control centre, on Sutton Road, Maidstone, handled 1,298,999 calls from across Kent yesterday and the switchboard answered 3,419 calls - making it busier than New Year's Eve last year.

Kent Police and partner agencies have been working throughout last night and today to keep the main roads clear in preparation for the predicted heavy snow this afternoon.

Drivers who feel they must make a journey, should prepare accordingly, stocking their car with high calorie snacks, warm clothing and water, and to listen to the radio for travel updates.

More snow is forecast today and overnight, with temperatures expected to make a slow recovery by the weekend.

Lester Gosbee, our own amateur weatherman, said: "More snow is on the way but it will start to thaw on Friday and on Saturday.

"About 10cm will fall on the top of the North Downs and about 5cm below."

Keep checking this website for weather updates and school closures.