THE coldest night in Worcester since 1982 was recorded last night, with ground temperatures plummeting to -16C.

Snow showers held off but freezing conditions created rock-hard ice patches all over the county, Evening News weather expert Paul Damari said today.

"Melted snow and existing snow cover, combined with the cold, made it treacherous on roads and underfoot," he said.

"We haven't recorded temperatures as low as this since January 1982."

Mr Damari said freezing fog banks set in this morning in some parts of the county, lowering visibility to 100m.

"After 4'o'clock today temperatures are set to drop to the -12C point," he said. "There could be an odd snow shower but tomorrow will generally be sunny and cold."

Mr Damari also sounded a note of caution for New Year's Eve revellers this weekend.

"Warmer air from the Atlantic will start to push the cold air down and freezing rain will encase everything in ice," Mr Damari said.

"I strongly advise people to set off early to relatives' or parties on New Year's Eve, if at all.

"But by New Year's day the icy conditions should start to wear off and I predict flooding and temperatures back into double figures as early as next week."