BASINGSTOKE has woken up to a very snowy Sunday this morning - but roads around the town remain quiet as residents appear to adhere to 'stay at home' guidance.

Many have already been enjoying the snow in their gardens or local open spaces whilst taking their daily exercise.

But the combination of poor conditions and non-essential travel restricitions are keeping people off the roads.

Emergency services are warning anyone who must travel to do so responsibly. 

In a tweet this morning, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said they had a "busy morning", adding: "Please take care and drive according to the road conditions if you MUST go out."

The Gazette has not yet been able to reach Hampshire Constabulary for comment, however other police forces across the country have been issuing advice for travellers during this snowy weather.

Nottinghamshire Police posted the following guidance, with the key message being "If in doubt, don't go out":

Check your vehicle

Ensure you check your fuel, oil and water levels, check electrics and make sure your tyres have sufficient tread before setting out.

Check your lights and brakes are working effectively, including the handbrake and the fog lamps.

Ensure your heaters are working and you have added antifreeze to your radiator and windscreen washers.

Be prepared

Be prepared by having an emergency kit in your vehicle, which should include ice-scraper, de-icer, warm clothes and blankets, torch, boots, first aid kit, jump leads, a spade, a road atlas and sunglasses (for the winter glare).

Check the forecast for the day. The morning trip to work might be clear skies and frost, but the changeable British weather means those clouds can roll in and the next thing you know you’re driving home in snow. Be ready for all eventualities.

Plan your journey

Check weather and travel conditions before and during your journey and make sure you leave extra time to clear your windscreen properly before setting off.

Try to stick to main roads that have been gritted, wherever possible. You can find details of gritting routes in our county on the Nottinghamshire County Council and Nottingham City Council web sites.

In severe weather

Consider whether your journey is essential or travel at a different time. In winter, the weather can change quickly so always be prepared for bad weather.

Leave plenty of time for your journey so you can take it easy on your trip.

Leave ample room between you and the vehicle in front to allow for wet, slippery surfaces.

If in doubt, don’t go out. If the journey is not essential then leave it for a day when the conditions are better.

Always remember

On those frosty mornings don’t leave your car running while you nip in
for the kettle to defrost your windscreen. It’s only takes a moment for a
thief to jump in and drive off.

Even when roads have been treated with salt, ice can still form, particularly on bends or under overhanging trees.

Be vigilant

Don’t ignore bad behaviour on our roads. Report careless or drink drivers to Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.