THE MET Office has issued a Level two cold weather alert across the North West.

Public Health England (PHE) North West is urging people to think what they can do to keep warm and well during the cold and remind them to look out for vulnerable neighbours, family and friends.

A Level two alert means that within the next 48 hours, there is a 70 per cent chance of severe weather with the possibility of wintry showers, overnight frost and a chance of icy patches.

Dr Will Welfare, Consultant in Health Protection, PHE North West said: "This cold is likely to arrive late on Thursday and into Friday. Before then it’s really important to think about what you can do to prepare and protect more vulnerable friends and family from the ill-effects of the cold"

Dr Welfare added that it was best to wear lots of thin layers, have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm and check weather forecasts before heading out.

He said:"Wear shoes with a good, slip-resistant grip to prevent any accidental falls," he said "When indoors stay warm, heat homes to at least 18C. All of this is particularly important if anyone in the home is very young, 65 or over or has a long term heart or lung condition as they can feel the ill-effects of cold more than the rest of us."

You can find useful advice on the Stay Well This Winter website: www.nhs.uk/staywell