A SPATE of snow-related crashes across North Yorkshire caused traffic problems this morning.

North Yorkshire Police said officers have responded to a flurry of collisions during the early hours of today, but nobody suffered any injuries in the crashes.

Following the collisions, the force has urged drivers to take extra care in wintry conditions.

The incidents between midnight and 9am include:

• A grey Peugeot 107 and a blue Vauxhall Corsa came off the A64 at Whitwell on the Hill at around 7.40am. The women driving the cars were uninjured

• A man escaped injury when his grey VW Passat crashed into bushes on the A169 at Old Malton shortly before 9am

• Damage-only collision between a tanker and a VW Golf on the A59 at Blubberhouses at 12.20am. The fire service assisted and the scene was clear by 2.20pm, including another HGV that had become stuck on the bank ahead of the collision

• On Coppice Drive, Harrogate, at 8.15am, a black Renault Captur slid into a Mercedes Sprinter van which blocked the road for a short time

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "It has clearly been a difficult time on the roads due to the snowfall overnight. Thankfully there have been no serious or minor injury collisions reported during this period, although the dozens of damage-only collisions have kept the emergency and highways teams busy.

“To help keep safe, we urge motorists to drive to the conditions, keep your distance from other road-users and anticipate the longer time it takes to slow down and come to a stop.

“It is also vital that your vehicle is prepared for the conditions, including removing snow and ice from all windows, roof and body work.

“Remember, it is always best to arrive later than never. If the conditions are severe and your journey is not essential, then it is best to stay indoors until the roads become clear.”

The key safety advice for motorists during the cold snap includes:

• Check brakes, lights, wiper blades, and oil and washer fluid level

• Ensure tyres meet legal requirements – and preferably a tread depth of 3mm

• Carry water and de-icer in the car with you

• If you are going on a longer journey, bring food, hot drinks, blankets and a fully-charged mobile phone

• Always clear your windscreen properly of ice and snow before setting off

Further winter driving tips from North Yorkshire Police’s expert drivers are available at www.northyorkshire.police.uk/winterdriving.