Grab the scarf and snow boots - Kent's set to suffer sub-zero temperatures and wintry showers.

Forecasters predict rain today could clear and make way for sleet or even snow, with icy conditions developing.

It comes after Kent County Council's highways department issued an ice alert for the county.

Road surface temperatures were set to plummet below freezing overnight, leaving roads potentially treacherous for morning rush hour drivers.

Gritters were out in force on the main roads, keeping the trunk roads and motorways clear.

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A statement issued by the department said: "Motorists are advised to watch out for icy stretches or patches, particularly on the untreated roads... and should expect the surfaces to be slippery."

They advised drivers to take extra care, making sure to brake extra early in slippery conditions.

Research from the Highways Agency shows that around half of drivers (45%) in the county do not prepare their vehicle for winter.

It claims 29% of people do not take any of the items in the suggested emergency kit and that half do not even carry de-icer.

John Henderson, severe weather manager for the Highways Agency, said: "We are ready for winter.

"We have done our test runs and we are ready to go. Now we are asking the public to be ready and be prepared for winter too."

The agency’s Farthing Corner depot off the M2 in Gillingham, which covers the A2 and M2 between Dover and Dartford and the A249 as far as Sheppey, is fully stocked with just over 3,000 tonnes.

The team have been preparing for the upcoming weather since the end of last winter.

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