HEAVY snow and ice caused long tailbacks on the M40 this morning, with 15 minor accidents reported by about 7am.

And a van turned over near the Stokenchurch junction at 8.40am, causing further mayhem.

A police spokesperson said: "Around 7am there had been 15 minor accidents caused by skidding on the ice or shunts on the M40 between junctions four and seven.

"We urge people to only make journeys if necessary because of the travelling conditions. If they are travelling, we urge them to be careful if driving on the motorway."

No-one was hurt in this morning's accidents.