Drivers have been warned to beware icy conditions on the roads this morning, after a night during which Norfolk was bracing itself for temperatures to dip as low as -4C.

Snow flurries hit the county last night, settling in some areas and making ungritted roads and footpaths treacherous.

Norfolk police were last night at the scene of a three-vehicle collision on the A11 at Besthorpe, though no serious injuries were reported.

The accident led to the closure of the southbound carriageway at around 10.30pm, and police expected the road to be reopened by this morning.

Norfolk County Council sent its gritters out as the temperatures fell early in the evening, and said they would be active on the county's road network overnight as well.

The East of England Ambulance Service said yesterday it had seen no marked increase in the number of collisions on the county's roads, and thanked drivers for using common sense.

Glenn Young, head of the health and emergency operations centres, said: 'Clearly people are heeding the advice that the police, ourselves and motoring organisations are giving out to take extra care and only to make journeys that are absolutely necessary.

'While the snowy and icy conditions continue to present a hazard, particularly on smaller roads and side streets, motorists should remain particularly careful.'

He reminded motorists to allow for increased braking distances and be aware of emergency vehicles approaching on blue lights.

People venturing out on foot should also be aware slippery surfaces posed a bigger risk of trips and falls.

'The public should wear appropriate footwear whilst out in icy and snowy conditions to avoid injury especially on ungritted surfaces, and wrap up warm when going outside,' said Mr Young. 'Also, check on your family and neighbours to see that they are OK and can avoid having to go out in slippery conditions.'

He added that the public should only call 999 in serious or life-threatening situations, and make use of the NHS Direct line on 0845 4647, GPs or pharmacists.

A spokesman for Norfolk police said officers had seen no surge in the number of incidents, but urged drivers to be aware of the state of the roads.

He added: 'With the icy conditions, we are warning motorists to take care on the roads in the morning.'

The Met Office was last night forecasting snow showers would give a slight covering, but clearing skies would lead to a dry end to the night and a frosty morning.

Icy stretches were expected to develop on untreated surfaces, with rain showers and sleet through the day.