More misery on way as cold snap bites

It is the longest cold spell to hit the West Midlands in decades - and this weekend the disruption is set to get worse before it gets better.

See also: More of your snow pictures

As more snow is due to fall in Birmingham and South Staffordshire tonight, events have been cancelled, public transport hit by delays and emergency services severely stretched.

A major national cycling race due to be held at Sutton Park called off after organisers British Cycling and Birmingham City Council decided the conditions would be too dangerous for competitors.

The 2010 National Cyclo-Cross Championship will now be rescheduled for February.

Steve Grimwood, British Cycling chief commisionaire, said: "The safety of competitors, spectators and the general public is paramount, so there was no choice but to re-schedule."

Meanwhile Sandwell Valley's RSBP Reserve has also been force to close due to the freezing conditions across the region.

Concerns over the health and safety of visitors has caused the facility to close its car park and visitors centre to the public, although walkers will still be able to access the reserve.

Back roads will remain treacherous as as temperatures fall as low as - 6C (21.2F) tonight although councils across the region insist they are well stocked with grit - unlike others across the country which are running out.

West Midlands and Staffordshire Police have also urged children not to play near iced-over ponds or pools after reports of youngsters doing so.

Emergency hotline 0121 500 5500 has been set up in Sandwell to help people who are trapped in their homes.