A new weather forecast shows there could be snow in many areas across the UK as Britons brace themselves for a cold snap.

Latest weather maps show snow could fall across a 400-mile stretch from as far west as Northern Ireland and as far east as East Anglia.

Snow of up to 10cm an hour is forecasted to fall in the early hours of Valentine’s Day on 14 February.

According to weather maps from WXCharts, cities including Belfast, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool and Norwich could see snow.

In England, the Midlands, Yorkshire and much of the north-west coast are expected to be affected.

The forecaster said high pressure moving in from the south-east would cause a drop in the mercury on Friday and a possible dusting of snow in two areas of the UK.

The Met Office long-range forecast for the week starting February 9 warns of cold conditions.

It says: "High pressure is expected to be slow moving and centred to the northeast of the UK over Scandinavia during this period. As a result, east or southeasterly winds will dominate, these bringing cold conditions across the UK from mainland Europe. Some light rain and hill snow is likely at first, particularly across the south of the UK.

"Dry conditions will probably become more prevalent later in this period with some spells of sunshine or clear skies. However, there is a continued risk of some wintry precipitation at times, particularly along southern and southwestern areas. Temperatures are expected to be below normal during the day with some overnight frost. Brisk winds will exacerbate the cold feel, particularly in the south of the UK."