A white Christmas has been ruled out for Suffolk and Essex – but snow may be on its way before the new year.

Forecasters at Weatherquest in Norwich say a frosty start to Christmas Day is the closest the region will get to a festive white coating.

“Otherwise it’s going to be a pleasant winter’s day,” said Weatherquest’s Chris Bell.

“It will be cold but clear and dry,”

High temperatures are expected to be around 5c of 6c – cooler than the mild weather of recent days but remaining above freezing. On Boxing Day, Mr Bell said the weather was expected to “become a little more interesting”.

Wet and windy conditions are predicted to develop into the evening, with the unsettled weather continuing into the weekend.

Mr Bell said the temperatures were likely to remain low with wintery showers possible, particularly on Sunday.

The forecast for Christmas Eve is for a mild and cloudy start, with a chance of rain in the morning, clearing in the afternoon.