TODAY is expected to be the busiest day ever for breakdowns, according to the AA.As freezing wintry conditions continue to grip the country the AA said they have been called to around 18,000 breakdowns since midnight and they are predicting that number will reach 25,000 by the end of the day.

TODAY is expected to be the busiest day ever for breakdowns, according to the AA.

As freezing wintry conditions continue to grip the country the AA said they have been called to around 18,000 breakdowns since midnight and they are predicting that number will reach 25,000 by the end of the day.

That figure will be nearly three times the normal number of breakdowns attended by the AA on an average Monday, when they would expect around 9,500 calls from members of the public.

Breakdowns are now being reported at around 2,200 every hour, down from the peak of 4,000 every hour, earlier this morning.

The biggest breakdown organisation in the UK, said they are continuing to deploy extra patrols and all its specially-equipped Land Rovers are working in the snow-affected areas.

A spokesman for the AA said in these conditions priority is being given to drivers in the most vulnerable situations.

And the busy period is unlikely to ease off for the breakdown service as they predict a busier day tomorrow when worsening weather conditions combine with children returning to school in many areas.

Icy roads are expected across Suffolk for the next week as temperatures dip to as low as -6C in some places.

The AA is advising drivers to keep their speed down and to leave at least a three-second gap between them and the car in front.

Before setting off in their vehicles, drivers should check local traffic and weather reports for their planned route and to listen to police advice about whether or not to travel.

Prior to today the busiest day with 22,000 breakdowns was Monday, December 21, the busiest day experienced by the AA in the last ten years.

For comprehensive winter motoring advice, please visit the AA's website at www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/seasonal/winter_motoring.html.