Chance of white Christmas fades

Snow is forecast for several areas after Christmas Day

The chances of a white Christmas across the UK have faded, but forecasters have warned snow could bring disruption to south-east of England on Boxing Day.

The BBC Weather Centre said the "real change" will begin on Monday evening with snow in the East and parts of the South East, North East and Midlands.

Bookmakers lengthened their odds of snow for 25 December.

A single flake must fall on one of the nominated cities' weather centres for it to be declared a white Christmas.

BBC weather presenter Kirsty McCabe said Christmas Day will be dry and bright in many areas but 26 December is shaping up to be a rather cold day.

"Showers will turn increasingly wintry as we drag in the colder air from the north east," she said.

It will remain dry further west but will still feel colder.

Driving conditions

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning and said there is an increased possibility that "several centimetres" of snow will fall in southern and eastern parts next week.

It says there is a 70% risk of severe weather in East Anglia and Lincolnshire, a 50% risk in the North East, the Midlands and central southern England, a 30% chance in North West England and a 20% chance in Wales, South West England and Eastern Scotland.

Police, meanwhile, have warned motorists to take extra care when driving in adverse weather conditions.

"Drivers need to take special care when driving in bad weather, especially when it affects road conditions and visibility," said Chief Superintendent Charles Griggs, of the Metropolitan Police Traffic Unit.

The Highways Agency reported delays on the westbound M3 in Hampshire on Saturday morning due to heavy traffic.

But most major roads remained quiet as the holiday getaway went better than expected with travellers making their journeys earlier than usual.

Ladbrokes is now offering odds of 8-1 of London receiving a dusting of snow, while rival William Hill 5-2.