AVON and Somerset Police are urging people to take care - and to look out for others as an extreme cold snap hits.

It's already very cold out there, but there's worse to come as Arctic air hits our shores and moves inland.

The 'Beast from the East' has seen temperatures already plummet below zero and it's likely to get as low as -7degsC by the middle of next week.

Police are warning motorists to be prepared and one of the obvious ways is to fully clear your car windows before setting out.

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While it's important to look after ourselves, the force is also pleading with us to check up on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours.

On a Facebook post, the force says: "If you're having a cosy weekend at home, sheltering from the so-call 'Beast from the East', could you spare 30 mins to pop round and check on your elderly neighbours?

"People who feel isolated can be more vulnerable to crime.

"Sometimes just saying 'hello' can make all the difference, especially in the cold weather."

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