The first snow flakes of winter have fallen across parts of the Black Country this morning.

There were flurries of snow in Oldbury, and Wolverhampton as well as the Lickey Hills, Bromsgrove, and parts of the Midlands.

Dudley Council confirmed that gritting lorries would be out in the region tonight.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for environmental services said: “Our gritters will be out tonight, treating main routes ahead of predicted cold temperatures this evening.

"We’ll be keeping an eye on the weather reports and taking appropriate action but we’d remind drivers to please take care on the roads and stay safe as the temperatures fall.”

However despite the freezing temperatures, the Met Office said there was little chance of a snow day anytime soon.

The forecast for the region was scattered showers at first today, with some sleet over the highest ground. Turning brighter through the afternoon with most of the showers clearing.

Tonight temperatures could fall to -2C with frost and freezing fog patches. Tomorrow will be largely cloudy with a few showers and the best of any bright spells towards the west. Maximum temperature 7C.

Elsewhere the first flurries of snow hit high ground across northern England, Wales and Scotland today, but snow also fell as far south as Brighton and Devil's Dyke in the South Downs of Sussex, as November closes with an icy blast.

Motorists were warned of hazardous driving conditions on the Pennines between Lancashire and Yorkshire, with the Snake Pass between Manchester and Sheffield among the main roads covered in a blanket of snow.

Temperatures dipped to just below freezing overnight, with millions waking up to frost and icy conditions.

Higher ground in the south west of England and Wales may see a possible dusting of snow on Wednesday according to the Met Office, with light snow reported to be falling in the Cotswolds.

The AA warned drivers to take extra care as the weather conditions deteriorate.

George Flinton, AA Patrol of the Year, said: "The first really cold snap of winter can catch drivers unaware, putting them at risk.

"Preparation is key. Drivers should allow extra time for journeys, make sure their cars are clear of snow and ice before setting off and ensure they take warm clothes, food and drinks with them in case of unexpected delays.

"They should also make sure they drive to the conditions. So, allow extra space between vehicles and keep speeds down."