RESIDENTS in Lancashire were among the first to be issued with the new Cold Weather Health Warning as sub-zero temperatures hit the North West.

Temperatures as low as -8C (18F) are being predicted for the region over the next five days, with heavy fog making life difficult for motorists and a chance of sleet and snow on higher ground.

And it could be as cold as -5C during the daytime.

The Cold Weather Health Warning is a pilot scheme being tested in the North West to help protect those most vulnerable to the effects of cold.

It was issued to residents in the North West as the region has a higher number of people living in fuel poverty.