The post-Christmas Arctic chill was continuing to grip Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire and north Wiltshire today.

But plunging temperatures and icy roads appeared to be causing fewer problems than yesterday.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks said power had now been restored to 20,000 customers following disruption caused by wind and snow.

Craig Gilroy, director of customer operations, said: “We understand how frustrating a loss of power can be, especially over the festive season, and I would like to thank our customers for their patience as our teams battled throughout the day and into the night to restore power."

“We have now returned to business as usual, but with potential high winds forecast for later this week, we will continue to closely monitor the situation.”

Western Power Distribution said power had now been restored to all customers cut off supply on December 26 and 27.

The firm dealt with about 1,153 incidents and restored about 99,988 customers.

The Met Office says that after an icy start today, most places will have a fine day with plenty of sunshine.

But, it will remain cold and there will be the occasional shower in a few places. Maximum temperature 5C.

It will be clear and frosty this evening, with ice in places. There may be heavy rain by morning. Minimum temperature -4C.

Rail services at Birmingham New Street station are experiencing disruption that is likely to continue until 2pm. 

Stagecoach says that due to the icy conditions service 63 is unable to service the Nortonwood loop in Stroud, while service 64 is unable to use Kings Road and is diverting via Woodcock Lane and Gloucester Road.

The bout of wintry weather comes about a fortnight after dozens of schools were closed and homes were left without power when a deep freeze gripped the area.