IF YOU thought it was cold at the moment, brace yourself - because it's going to get worse.

Temperatures across the area look set to drop to freezing this week thanks to the biting east winds blowing in from Russia.

Temperatures in Russia are averaging minus nine degrees Centigrade in the day, dropping to a distinctly chilly minus 19 at night.

After a warm but wet November in the UK the Met Office is forecasting a sharp fall in temperatures in the region, with night frosts and daytime temperatures barely scraping above freezing.

"Quite simply, dress up warm if you have to venture outside," said a spokesman from Weathercall.

"Looking further ahead, the odds favour a colder winter than we've seen in recent years, but it's still too early to talk about a white Christmas."

Elderly people should take additional care during the coming weeks, said Yvette Pearson, community services manager for Age Concern Bournemouth.

"Wear several items of thin clothing rather than one thick layer because your body heat will get trapped between the layers," she added.

"At night wear bed socks and a night cap or scarf to keep warm. And when outdoors wear non-slip shoes to prevent you from falling."

She added: "Eat well. Food is a fuel that keeps us warm. Aim to have at least one hot meal a day and drink hot drinks regularly and make sure you have a hot drink when you go to bed."

Those who have elderly neighbours are asked to stay vigilant during the winter months and look out for them by checking curtains have been pulled and lights are on at night.

Anyone who wants more information on how the elderly can keep warm this Christmas can call Age Concern Bournemouth on 01202 530530.