Traffic and travel updates as snow falls across Wigan

As Wiganers woke up this morning to a blanket of white, we asked our readers to send in their snowy pics and they did not disappoint!

You can view our snowy gallery here: https://www.wigantoday.net/news/weather/readers-pictures-wigans-first-snow-of-the-new-year-4479671

Shevington High has decided to close due to the poor weather conditions.

A post on Facebook said: "We have had to make the decision to close school due to the poor weather conditions.

"We have managed to keep the school site safe until now, however, despite the fact that the snow is forecast to ease this morning, we are now struggling to keep the paths cleared and we do not have a full staff presence in school."

Motorists are being urged to tread carefully on the roads.

People have been abandoning cars on Chorley Road in Standish due to the treacherous conditions

Aspull, Shevington and The Grange libraries will all remain closed today.

People are advised to check social media for further updates

St Peters High in Orrell has also decided to closed due to the worsening conditions

Passengers are being urged to check their trains due to earlier delays

Lines have reopened following a fault with the signalling system in the Edge Hill area.

As service recovers, trains running to / from Liverpool Lime Street may still be cancelled, delayed by up to 30 minutes or revised.

Disruption is expected until 13:30.

A third school has had to close its doors this afternoon.

Pupils at Hawkley Hall High School have been sent home due to the school building having no electricity.

AO transport operations manager, Karl Williams, has put together some winter driving tips ahead of the snowy and icy weather expected over the next couple of days: 

1) Don’t accelerate too quickly or harshly in snow as this can dig your car into a rut. If this happens, accelerate gently in the highest gear possible, moving your car backwards and forwards until you’re out of the rut. If you’re not able to get out alone, ask for help from other motorists.

2) If you don’t already, turn your window wipers off at the end of every journey before turning off the car. If your windscreen freezes, this can tear wiper blades if they come on automatically. Also, keep your windscreen washer fluid nozzles clear of snow and ice, and use a washer fluid with anti-freeze to help clear your windscreen quickly.

3) Leave significant room around larger vehicles, including buses, vans and lorries – bigger vehicles, especially HGV’s, have the potential to jack-knife if they hit a patch of ice.

4) Be visible and have visibility – If you fail to clean your whole car of snow before setting off, you risk being fined £60 and receiving three penalty points on your licence. You also need to ensure you clear your lights and number plates are fully visible prior to every trip on the road.

5) Have the right lights on – If you are driving along rural or dark roads, ensure you put your full beam lights on if there are no other vehicles on the road. If driving in heavy snowfall or blizzard conditions, dipped headlights are best. If there is very low visibility or fog, then pop your fog light on so other drivers can see you clearly.

6) Consider winter tyres – these can be useful in any driving conditions under 7c. Winter tyres offer far more traction and grip than regular tyres. For those without winter tyres, a 3mm tread tyre is recommend.

Residents on Langdon Avenue in Whitley woke up to see two foxes playing in the snow.

Watch the video here:

Three mobile screening units based at The Thomas Linacre Centre, Leigh and Skelmersdale will be closing from 3pm for the rest of the day to ensure staff and patient safety.

Those affected will be contacted for alternative appointments