OVERNIGHT temperatures plummeted to below zero in the Wellington and Wiveliscombe areas in a sharp contrast to the fourth-warmest November which had been enjoyed recently.

Rather than basking in 9.4C (49F) warmth, residents were shivering in -2C (28.4F) as the first consistently Arctic-feel weather settled across the area.

And daytime temperatures today were forecast not to rise above a chilly 4C, falling back to a consistently sub-zero figure throughout the night.

The Met Office forecasts a cold and frosty day tomorrow, although mostly dry and sunny with a maximum temperature of 5C.

Saturday to Monday will remain cold and mainly dry with spells of sunshine and just a few showers, mainly near coasts, and sharp overnight frosts.

Met Office chief meteorologist Steve Willington said: “As an Arctic maritime airmass settles across the UK temperatures will fall with widespread overnight frosts, severe in places, and daytime temperatures only a few degrees above freezing.

“However, the cold air from the Arctic will also bring brighter conditions, with some dry, sunny spells, particularly away from the coast, and where winds are light it could feel pleasant in the sunshine. Some patchy freezing fog is also likely.”

The Wellington neighbourhood police team dealt with incidents on the roads overnight and warned motorists to follow basic safety steps such as clearing ice from car windscreens, windows, and mirrors.

A spokesman said: “Learn from this driver (photo above) who did not take the time to defrost their windows before setting off, and whose view of the road was hampered by ice and a poorly placed SatNav.

“They were reported for driving without due care and attention.

“It is an offence to not maintain a clear unobstructed windscreen, so please take an extra five minutes to fully defrost your windows in the morning.”