A MOTORIST who skidded on ice after ignoring a road closure sign will receive a "hefty fine", police have said.

The Leader reported on Thursday evening how North Wales Police was alerted to the incident, at Moel Famau.

A spokesman said officers had been put "at risk" trying to help the motorist, who had broken Covid-19 rules by driving to the area from Ellesmere Port.

Officer attended the scene with North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) team members, but while assisting the man, the police vehicle became "stuck in heavy snow."

A spokesman for the NEWSAR team said: "We've worked alongside North Wales Police Rural Crime team.

"Our role was initially to assist with a potentially serious road traffic collision, with a vehicle some way off the highway.

"There was a need for rapid response and they turned out with the best vehicles they had.

"They found that the motorist wasn't seriously injured and we then stood down.

"Just at this point the weather took a sudden turn for the worse and the NWP Officers found themselves at the top of a very big hill with snow over ice, so they asked for help to get down safely.

"Two of our vehicles then deployed.

"They helped to clear the worst of the snow and ice using grit and shovels, so the police vehicles could be safely recovered.

"The NWP Officers then dealt with the motorist who has been left in a safe place to make their own way home."

After the incident, a spokesman for North Wales Police said: "One male in his 30s, who is lucky to be uninjured, has been dropped at a taxi rank in Mold and will receive a hefty fine for his irresponsible actions.

"His car is badly damaged in the crash and remains unrecoverable. All officers safe.

"Thank you to NEWSAR for rescuing us."