Scots have been urged to help their neighbours and look out for vulnerable people in the wake of heavy snow which has swept the country this week.

Record-breaking snowfall brought travel to a halt across Scotland earlier this week and left many people stranded.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney has called for patience and asked people to help where possible.

He said: "If you have capacity to help neighbours, or are the owner of large vehicles that could assist the clearance work on your local road, I would encourage you to volunteer and look out for vulnerable people.

"Shop deliveries in some local areas may be affected in the short-term, so I would also ask that people are patient and sensible when purchasing food or fuel, as the situation gradually returns to normal."

His comments were echoed by the Scottish Ambulance Service, which said it would be a "great help" to the emergency services if people cleared their own streets.

The Met Office has warned snow showers are expected to continue but the forecaster has rescinded its earlier red and amber warnings. A yellow alert will remain in place across most of Scotland until midnight on Monday.