KENT Police have confirmed that Operation Stack was stood down in the early hours of this morning.

The measure, which sees freight traffic queueing on the M20 whilst non freight traffic is diverted onto the A20, was put in place yesterday when adverse weather conditions forced the closure of the Port of Dover.

At its height, Phase two of the operation needed to be implemented, which means the coastbound carriageway is closed between junction 8 (Leeds Castle, near Maidstone) and junction 9 (Ashford) as well as between junction 11 (Hythe) and junction 12 (Folkestone).

Meanwhile, Kent Police is also advising people to be prepared for the bad weather conditions forecast for the next few days.

Reports suggest that the bad weather will continue this weekend with the threat of 2-5cm of snow in the south. By taking simple precautions, people can avoid problems.

The advice from Kent Police is:

* Listen to local traffic alerts so that you are prepared for road conditions before you set off on your journey;

* Poor weather conditions mean it can be harder for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, so be vigilant and make sure you can be seen however you are travelling - this includes using lights or wearing high visibility clothing;

* In poor visibility be extra alert for hazards;

* When the roads are wet it can take twice as long to stop your vehicle, so slow down;

* Carry warm waterproof clothing, food, water and a torch in your vehicle, in case weather conditions mean you have to stop;

Make sure you have plenty of fuel for your journey before you set off.

For information about road conditions on motorways and trunk roads, see the Highways Agency website.

See the Met Office website for information on weather conditions.