Cold weather health warnings have been issued as low temperatures are set to hit Leicestershire

It might have been a fairly mild winter so far, but cold spells are about to hit Leicestershire and a lot of the UK.

Met Office has predicted the temperature in Leicester will drop to -1C tomorrow (Friday December 14).

This approaching cold spell has urged Public Health England to issue a health warning.

The organisation is encouraging people to get prepared for the cold weather and keep an eye on older relatives and friends.

Dr Owen Landeg for Public Health England said: "This cold is likely to arrive late on Thursday and into Friday.

"Before then it’s really important to think about what you can do to prepare and protect more vulnerable friends and family from the ill-effects of the cold.

"It is best to wear lots of thin layers, have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm, and check weather forecasts before heading out. Also, wear shoes with a good, slip-resistant grip to prevent any accidental falls.

When indoors, stay warm, heat homes to at least 18°C, and keep up-to-date with the weather forecast - all of this is particularly important if anyone in the home is very young, 65 or over or has a long-term heart or lung condition, as they can feel the ill-effects of cold more than the rest of us."

How to prepare for cold weather

• Look out for vulnerable friends and family
• Keep homes at a temperature of at least 18C
• Keep an eye on weather forecasts
• Find out if you're eligible for discounted energy bills
• Avoid exposing yourself to icy or cold conditions if you are at hight risk of cold-related illnesses or falls