A cold weather alert has been issued by Public Health England after wintry conditions hit our region and other parts of the UK overnight.
It said the severe weather forecast for parts of England - which is expected to continue into Tuesday morning - has led it to issue the warning, which reminds people how to stay well in cold conditions.
Severe winter weather forecast for parts of England from 6am Sunday, December 27 to 9am Tuesday 29 December has prompted Public Health England (PHE) to remind people how to stay well in cold conditions, it said.
The north west, north wast, west Midlands and Yorkshire and the Humber have experienced the coldest weather since Sunday morning.
Frosty conditions are expected overnight on Monday with temperatures remaining low overnight and throughout the day. Wintry showers - with some snow across the hills and icy patches are possible.
People are urged to heat their homes to a certain temperature and to check on elderly and vulnerable neighbours and relatives - while maintaining social distancing and Covid-19 rules.
Dr Ishani Kar-Purkayastha, consultant in Public Health at Public Health England, said: "Cold weather can be bad for your health. Heat your home to at least 18C if you can, particularly if you have reduced mobility, are 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease.
"If you can't heat all the rooms you us, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to bed. Wearing a few layers of thin clothing is better at trapping the heat than one thick layer and will help to keep you warm."
People struggling to afford heating can contact Simple Energy Advice for free advice on energy efficiency and national grants to help them keep warm and well.
Dr Kar-Purkayastha added: "Look out for others at this time is also really important.
"Remember to check on frail or older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses, remembering Covid-19 social distancing and restrictions in place in your area, to make sure they are safe, warm and well."
