THE COUNTY councillor with responsibility for highways has apologised for this morning's travel disruption, saying the snowfall was 'not expected'.

Motorists have been struggling to negotiate ungritted roads this morning after two inches of snow blanketed parts of the districts.

Schools in Epping, Ongar, Waltham Abbey and North Weald have been forced to close after teachers were unable to travel on icy routes and bus services were cancelled.

One lane of the exit slip road of the M25 at junction 26, near Waltham Abbey, is currently closed because of a broken down vehicle.

Derrick Louis, Essex County Council cabinet member for Highways and Transportation, said: "I would like to sincerely apologise for the travel disruption that our residents have experienced today due to the severe weather.

"The snowfall was not expected at this time, but as soon as information reached us our gritting fleet was mobilised."

The county council sent out gritters this morning, which will be making further runs throughout the day and tonight.

Cllr Louis added: "Our focus now is on treating our main road network throughout today to prevent roads from becoming icy tonight and tomorrow morning.

"I advise residents to continue to travel with extreme caution at this time.”

Epping Forest District Council's waste collection teams have been performing their rounds despite the weather, but the authority said some disruption was possible.

A spokesman said: "Many staff are delayed due to these adverse weather conditions. We apologise for this temporary disruption to our services and thank residents for their patience."