SCHOOLS in South Essex have closed for the day as snow continues to fall and cause road and traffic disruption.

South Benfleet Primary School and Jotmans Hall Primary School have both closed, together with Seevic College and Eastwood Academy in Southend.

The children at The King John School in Thundersley watched a film before being sent home for the day.

In Rayleigh, Fitzwimarc School closed as parents and staff struggled to negotiate the High Road leading up from the Weir to the town.

Willow School in Basildon and Mayflower School in Billericay have also closed.

The advice to parents has been to contact the school directly where most have recorded messages of their intention to close or remain open.

Many schools operate a round robin email for parents now notifying them of any closures.

To speak to the Echo newsroom call 01268 469379.