COPS are warning motorists not to place themselves at risk on the roads after the Met Office issued an amber warning for snow.

Police Scotland is advising drivers that conditions for travel are extremely poor and there is a high risk of disruption for road journeys in Dumfries and Galloway, the western part of the Scottish Borders, West Lothian, Falkirk, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, Glasgow, East Renfrewshire, East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire areas.

If you do travel, you are likely to experience significant delays.

Congestion caused by vehicles may restrict emergency, recovery or winter maintenance vehicles from providing essential assistance or from clearing roads.

Drivers of HGVs should drive with extreme caution and be aware that you may be requested to park at a suitable position by the police.

Head of Road Policing, Chief Superintendent Stewart Carle, said: "Winter driving is a question of common sense and drivers should ask themselves if they really need to travel when conditions are poor. No-one should ever place themselves at risk on the road and it may be worth considering postponing your journey or making alternative arrangements such as delaying travel until conditions improve or using public transport.

"If you are travelling on the roads you should ensure you and your vehicle are adequately prepared for the conditions, making sure you have sufficient fuel and supplies such as warm clothing, food and water in the event you are delayed for several hours. Charge your mobile phone and plan your route as well as alternative routes . Listen to media broadcasts, especially local radio, and visit the Traffic Scotland website."

For all other areas with the exception of Aberdeen City and some neighbouring parts of Aberdeenshire/Angus Police Scotland is advising people that conditions for road travel are hazardous and drivers should exercise extra caution.

Weather forecasts are constantly being monitored at Traffic Scotland and will be updated as and when things change.

The Amber warning is in place from 3pm today until 8am tomorrow morning.