With the Beast from the East having caused serious travel delays, police have issued a warning to road users across Suffolk that driving conditions are expected to worsen as standing water freezes.

And with temperatures set to drop further, police are advising people to take care and be cautious of black ice.

Road users are still being advised to only make essential journeys this evening and tomorrow. Police have said that while the reported number of collisions remains relatively low – since 6am there have been around 30 non-injury or minor injury RTCs across Suffolk – the road conditions are making travel difficult with some journeys near to impossible.

Officers are also urging drivers of HGVs to stick to the left hand lanes on dual carriageways due to the weather conditions.

Police have been liaising with partners including Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Highways throughout the day and will continue to do so.

Chief Inspector Matt Rose said: 'We've had officers out across the county working to clear blocked roads and our Roads Policing units have been helping motorists who have been involved in road traffic collisions.

'As we move into the evening, drivers need to be cautious of black ice. While the roads may look clearer there will be hidden dangers as any standing water freezes.

'Our advice remains the same – drive to the conditions and only travel if your journey is absolutely necessary.

'Drivers of heavy goods vehicles should avoid using the fast lanes on dual carriageways –our aim is for everyone to get where they are travelling to safely.'

Chief Insp Rose added: 'Please follow our twitter (@suffolkpolice) and our facebook page (/suffolkpolice) for updates of any road traffic collisions and areas to avoid.

'Our priority is those who are already stuck or have been involved in an RTC. Please bear with us, we have to take the same precautions you do and it may take as slightly longer to get to you.

'My final appeal is for you to look after each other. If you have elderly or vulnerable relatives or neighbours, make sure they are ok and have everything they need.'

Suffolk Police is still receiving a high number of calls and the public should report any non-urgent matters online at www.suffolk.police.uk or in an emergency please call 999.