Heavy snow has started falling on Sheppey again this morning, adding to the chaos caused by the covering last night.

The heavy snowfall last night brought much of the county to a stand-still, and the situation looks set to worsen as more snow has started falling.

At least two inches settled across the Island after the snowfall which started at about 4pm yesterday and another heavy snowfall has already started this morning (Thursday), with about half an inch falling in 15 minutes.

The snow has caused chaos for drivers, with people being forced to abandon their vehicles along the Minster Road.

Buses are still replacing trains between Sheerness station and Sittingbourne, although a spokesman said the service depends on the condition of the roads.

Swale Borough Council has announced that its refuse and recycling collection is currently under review.

Kent Police is advising motorists to only travel if necessary as much of the snowfall has now turned to ice, making driving conditions in many parts hazardous.

Ch Insp Andy Reeves, head of Kent Police's roads policing unit, said: "Driving in snow and on icy roads is very difficult, even for experienced drivers.

"Tyres can lose traction when the road surface is wet or icy, which can result in skidding and a loss of control of the vehicle.

"Drivers need to ask themselves whether their journey is necessary if there is very heavy snowfall. If motorists do have to travel they should take a fully charged mobile phone, food, water and warm clothes with them in case they get stranded, quick recovery cannot be guaranteed in periods of severe weather."

The following schools and nurseries on the Island are closed: Isle of Sheppey Academy east and west sites, Minster Primary, St George’s Primary,

Daisy Chains Nursery, St Peter’s Playgroup, Eastchurch Primary, Westminster Primary, Rose Street Primary, Seashells Nursery, Halfway Houses Primary,

Richmond Primary, St Edwards Primary, Sheppey College, Queenborough Primary and Queenborough Nursery and Just Kids Day Nursery.