How should I prepare for half term traffic?

Checking tyres and petrol levels could be vital over the coming week – especially as one company has predicted Britain's roads could be choc-a-block.

Trafficmaster has forecast that October 23rd – or Black Friday, as it is sometimes called - could well be the worst day of the year so far for congestion, as it sees the start of the school half term break.

According to the company, the roads will begin to fill up from around 10:00 BST, with the heaviest traffic likely to be from around 15:00 BST.

Graham Smith, data manager at the business, explained there are various factors affecting congestion at the moment – such as high levels of HGV movement along some routes.

"Combined with the expected increase in traffic levels at the start of the half term break … and the possibility of variable weather conditions … we could see some of the worst congestion of the year," he stated.

As well as examining tyres and petrol before a trip this autumn, drivers might also like to look at their oil and screen wash levels.

Having enough games to play with the kids for the car journey might also be advisable.