Weather grounds Gatwick flights

Passengers have been urged to call airlines before they set off

At least a dozen flights have been cancelled at Gatwick Airport because of the falling snow.

Six inbound and six outbound Easyjet flights were grounded on Sunday morning according a spokeswoman for the West Sussex airport.

A number of British Airways flights were also not taking off and people have been urged to call their airline before they leave their homes.

Sussex Police said the bad weather had also led to about 30 road crashes.

Passengers already at the airport are being told to expect delays.

There have been a number of [road] crashes, mainly people sliding into each other because of the bad weather Sussex Police

Caroline Alderson, BAA Gatwick spokeswoman said: "There have been 12 Easyjet cancellations. I believe they have offered to put passengers on flights to the same destinations later in the day.

"The runway was closed this morning for snow clearance but is now back open."

She added: "We would urge passengers to call their airline before they travel and also to allow longer to get to the airport because of the weather and its affect on traffic."

Sussex Police said at least 30 vehicles had crashed across the county because of the bad conditions.

A spokesman said: "Snow is sweeping across the county. There have been a number of crashes, mainly people sliding into each other because of the bad weather.

"We would advise people who don't need to travel not to travel."