Snow misery continues in north east of Scotland

Image caption, Snow has been especially deep in areas such as Crathie

The winter weather has caused disruption on north east roads for an eighth consecutive day and again led to the closure of scores of schools.

Almost all of Aberdeenshire schools are closed or partially closed, as are dozens in Aberdeen and Moray and some in the Northern Isles.

Aberdeen's schools were re-opening after two in-service days, leading to busier rush-hour traffic in the snow.

Police said conditions were causing driving problems on many roads.

A jack-knifed lorry on the A90 close to Stonehaven caused long delays for drivers in the morning.

Grampian Police described conditions, especially on rural routes, and also in Aberdeen itself, as difficult.

Drifting snow closed the A939 Ballater to Corgarff road and the A941 Dufftown to Rhynie road at Cabrach.

The B974 Banchory to Fettercairn road at Cairn O'Mount and the B976 Crathie to Gairnshiel road were also closed.

Aberdeen Airport was operating after snow and ice were cleared from the runway early in the morning, and again just after 1030 GMT.

Aberdeenshire areas such as Crathie and Braemar have endured especially heavy snowfalls.

Image caption, Conditions were difficult and traffic busy outside Ashley Road School in Aberdeen

The snow arrived in the north east of Scotland last Wednesday.

Many schools have now been closed for a fifth day as a result.

The winter weather has also been causing ongoing problems since last week for offshore industry helicopter flights.

Operators are waiting for weather windows to allow them to ease the backlog and allow crew changes to happen.