MOTORISTS are urged to prepare this weekend as heavy snow, blizzards and freezing rain may develop across northern England.

Barrow, Millom and Ulverston look set to miss the brunt of the bad weather but the Lake District will be affected.

Drivers looking for a weekend break are told to plan well in advance if they are travelling to the Lake District or on the M6.

A Met Office spokesman said: “The snow could be heavy at times, especially over hills where blizzards may develop, and is likely to drift in strong winds.

“Across northern England and southern Scotland, snow may turn to freezing rain above 200-300 metres leading to widespread ice developing on Saturday night.

“2-5 cm of snow is likely at lower levels, whilst higher ground could see 10-20 cm.”