BASINGSTOKE was left gridlocked last night as heavy snow caused hundreds of drivers to become stranded.

Snow caused almost impassable conditions on a number of roads in the town, with reports that cars have been stuck for hours.

Hampshire Highways said that multiple jack-knifed lorries and fallen trees made the problem worse.

On the M3 southbound long tailbacks were caused after cars became stuck and the railway between the town and Winchester was blocked by fallen trees.

Emergency services struggled to reach those who were trapped in their cars after two lorries jack-knifed between junctions 6 and 7 on the stretch of motorway.

At shortly before 10pm lanes were opened after gritters were out in force to make the road safe.

Basingstoke hospital was also affected as staff living nearby were asked to come in.

Hampshire hospitals tweeted: "Basingstoke is currently gridlocked, which is likely to cause staffing issues at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital overnight.

"We are asking staff, particularly nursing staff, within walking distance to help if at all possible."

The community spirit was felt in the town throughout the heavy snow as strangers banded together to help stuck drivers, especially at Brighton Hill, and that included an ambulance which was caught in the snow and the rescue vehicle that had come to free the ambulance.

Staff at McDonald’s in the leisure park also helped out as around 20 people took to safety in the outlet and were offered free hot drinks, with some staying the night.

And Hampshire County Council organised a rest centre at St Michael’s Anglican Church, in Church Street, for drivers and passengers who were unable to stay with their vehicles.

Have you got any pictures or video from the night? Email newsdesk@basingstokegazette.co.uk