KNOWSLEY Safari has closed its doors to visitors until the weekend due to the icy temperatures.

An arctic blast has brought snow and ice to the region – and temperatures are set to plummet even further today (Wednesday) with forecasts suggesting it will be -3C locally this afternoon.

The visitor attraction in Prescot said it was closing due to extremely icy conditions.

Efforts are being taken to ensure visitors will be allowed at the weekend.

A statement issued by Knowsley Safari read: “Due to extremely icy conditions around the safari, we'll be closed until the weekend, for the safety and welfare of our guests, staff, and animals.

“The team is working hard to open this weekend and if you’ve booked a ticket for tomorrow or Friday, we'll be in touch to reschedule your day out.”

North West England weather forecast

Wednesday January 17

Largely sunny and cold with severe overnight frosts.

Frosty with icy surfaces at first and isolated patches of mist or freezing fog. Thereafter a crisp winter's day with plenty of sunshine for all. Staying generally dry but a few snow flurries are possible in coastal regions. Feeling cold. Maximum temperature 2 °C.

Tonight:

Dry and clear this evening and overnight with temperatures quickly plummeting after sunset. Another widespread and severe frost developing with icy patches. Possible snow flurries in Merseyside and Cheshire later. Minimum temperature -6 °C.