Villages cut off in blizzards

Blizzards gusting up to 60mph hit northern Scotland yesterday leaving many villages cut off and causing treacherous conditions for drivers. Vehicle rescue services have been working round the clock to help drivers of cars stuck in deep snow drifts.

The Orkney Islands have been worst hit with more than four inches of snow falling in the past 24 hours and biting gale force winds have pushed down temperatures to -16C.

Forecasters predicted the weather would worsen last night and drivers were urged to make only necessary trips.