NEW Year shoppers and travellers face the combined threat of snow and ice across the country today.

The Met Office has issued a yellow “be aware” warning of severe weather affecting large parts of Scotland this morning.

Overnight temperatures were due to fall as low as -6˚C, forcing weathermen to warn that untreated roads and pavements will pose a hazard to drivers and pedestrians and people out to bag a bargain in the sales.

In higher areas in the Highlands, Grampian and the Borders up to 2in of snow can be expected.

Matt Roe of the Met Office in Aberdeen said: “There will be a widespread overnight frost across Scotland, away from exposed northern coasts, lasting into Monday morning.

“We will see temperatures between -3˚C and -6˚C. Showers of rain and wet snow can be expected in the north, with some running into the south-east as well.

“On Monday, there could be snow down to low levels, later turning to rain.”

Some transport services will begin running services again today.