White Christmas odds slashed! But there's travel chaos, too

PA

Britain looks likely to enjoy a white Christmas as the recent snow sees bookies slash the odds "tenfold".

Coral spokesman Gary Burton told the Express: "The current snowfall has had many more punters rushing out to get their bets on. Betting on a White Christmas is busier than ever this year and turnover is up 25% on the previous year. We are already facing a six figure payout in the capital if it snows on the 25th."

Newcastle is currently the city with the shortest odds at just 5/2. Glasgow, Manchester and Leeds are priced at 3/1 and London is 9/2.

But, along with the white Christmas, comes warnings of travel chaos.

Forecasters yesterday warned of 'killer ice' on the roads, more snow this weekend, and temperatures plummeting to -10C.

Jonathan Powell, senior forecaster at Positive Weather Solutions, said: "There will be black ice and people shouldn't underestimate how hazardous it can be. Ice is a lethal, unseen killer," he warned.

The AA has reported a 20% rise in vehicle breakdowns, sending out special operations Land Rovers to help motorists stuck in West Sussex, East Anglia, Lancashire, Hampshire, mid-Wales and Scotland.

AA spokesman Gavin Hill-Smith said: "Take care and keep your speed down. If police caution against travel, we suggest drivers listen to that."

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