During the heavy snowfall last Saturday (4 February 2012) officers dealt with 61 collisions in a five hour period as motorists struggled to get to grips with the road conditions across the county.

Police are appealing to anyone who is out and about on the roads this weekend to drive safely and take into consideration the potentially challenging conditions.

Chief Inspector John Wilkinson, of North Yorkshire Police, said: "During last weekend's adverse weather conditions we had a high number of collisions in a short space of time. Fortunately none of those collisions resulted in any serious injuries but I would like to remind motorists of the dangers of driving in bad weather.

"If it is snowing or the roads are icy only travel if your journey is absolutely necessary. If you have to drive, give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination and when on the roads leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front."

There have been 32 collisions in North Yorkshire and the City of York today, but fortunately there have been no serious injuries.

For more advice and information on driving in adverse weather conditions please see our web page Driving in winter.

Chief Inspector Wilkinson also warned that a number of recent reports of youths throwing snowballs at cars is causing officers some concern.

He added: "A few motorists have contacted the police to report snowballs being thrown at their vehicles. This is not helpful at all, particularly with the difficult road conditions and I would urge parents to remind their children to be responsible.

"It might seem like fun but it can potentially cause a serious collision.

"We have also had reports of snowballs being thrown at people's properties. This is too is unacceptable and is upsetting for residents, in particular the vulnerable and elderly.

"We don't want to stop people having fun, we just ask that they are considerate of others."

Good neighbours

The wintry weather is often difficult for elderly and vulnerable members of the public, who may struggle to get around outside.

Some people may be in need of help or just some reassurance at this time, so please make the effort if you know someone who is on their own.

Chief Inspector Wilkinson said: "If you have an neighbour or relative who may need some help this weekend, please check on them and see if they are ok.

"They may be running low on food, having been unable to go out for the past week due to the weather and might appreciate your assistance."