Schools closed as snow and ice warning extends

Heavy snow is expected across Scotland on Saturday, followed by a rapid thaw and rain in the evening.

The Met Office has issued a yellow alert for rain and snow from 04:00 on Saturday until 09:00 on Sunday.

The alert covers Grampian, Highlands and Islands, Central, Perthshire, Lothian, Inverclyde, the Borders and southwest Scotland.

Transport Scotland has urged motorists to drive to the conditions this weekend and check public transport before leaving the house.

A yellow weather warning, external means it is likely that the weather will cause disruption to travel, and there is a danger of slips and falls on icy ground.

A spokesman said: “The Met Office has issued a number of severe weather warnings for much of the country for snow and ice for the rest of the week, including the weekend.

“We should expect more freezing temperatures so we’re asking the public to make sure they plan their journeys in advance, as challenging conditions could impact the transport network.”