Snow has fallen overnight and covered parts of Dorset.

It has mostly settled in hilly areas of north Dorset such as Gillingham and Shaftesbury.

Two schools have closed as a result, Shaftesbury C of E School and St Andrews CE VA Primary School.

Bournemouth Echo: Gold Hill covered in snowGold Hill covered in snow (Image: Graham Hunt)

It came after the Met Office issued a yellow warning for snow and ice which has now been lifted for Dorset.

An amber alert is triggered when conditions could increase the health risks to vulnerable people and disrupt the delivery of services.

The Met Office said: “Very cold weather is expected across most of England this week, with widespread frosts overnight and temperatures struggling to rise above freezing in some places during the day".

Bournemouth Echo: Shaftesbury has been covered in a blanket of snowShaftesbury has been covered in a blanket of snow (Image: Graham Hunt)

Bournemouth Echo: Shaftesbury was turned into a winter wonderland following heavy snowfallShaftesbury was turned into a winter wonderland following heavy snowfall (Image: Graham Hunt)

First Wessex announced some changes to their service due to adverse weather as the B2 service was suspended, while the B1, B3 and B4 services were only operating on the main road.

Bournemouth Echo: Snow has covered parts of ShaftesburySnow has covered parts of Shaftesbury (Image: Graham Hunt)

Bournemouth Echo: Snow has hit North Dorset this morningSnow has hit North Dorset this morning (Image: Graham Hunt)

Advice has been issued for people who have to go out during snowfalls, with drivers urged to plan their routes, travel slowly and with dipped headlights.

People, especially elderly and vulnerable residents, are also advised to purchase torches, batteries, candles and matches and warm clothing in the event of a power cut.