The flurry of snow which fell overnight appears to be melting with most roads and pavements being cleared too.

Bolton Council has been moving particularly fast to clear major areas of the borough. Grit has also been placed on pedestrianised areas and Victoria Square was being cleared this afternoon.

There were travel problems in Bolton this morning, particularly in the Sharples and Breightmet areas as motorists became suddenly caught out and the snow began to stick.

But the local authority has appeared keen to keep things moving, heading off possible criticism over perceived inactivity.

Nevertheless, commuters said they were forced to drive slower than usual because of the conditions and The Gates School in Westhoughton was partially closed - the only school to do so. Key Stage One pupils were told to stay away from school because of the weather.

Rain and snow will continue over the next day or so with temperatures falling as low as minus one but the snowfall is not expected to last.

The weather in Bolton for the rest of the week is forecast to be a mixture of sun and cloud, but temperatures will continue to fall as low as -3.

Light snowfall is expected again on Saturday.

Nick Prebble, a forecaster for MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association, said: "Most places in England will see a good dusting of snow this morning, but a heavier fall will come later in the day."

Do you have pictures of the snow? Send them to pictures@theboltonnews.co.uk