Drivers have been warned of ‘carmageddon’ on several major roads ahead of Easter weekend.

The RAC said journeys on some popular routes - including the M3 between Southampton and London - could take twice as long as normal.

The bank holiday weekend coincides with the start of a two-week holiday for many schools, leading to a surge in traffic.

On Good Friday, the lengthiest delays are expected to be between 11am and 3pm, meaning drivers are advised to set off as early as possible in the morning or wait until later in the afternoon.

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Delays are expected on the M3, with estimated journey times more than double what they normally are.

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “With Easter falling earlier than usual at the start of the school holidays, it could be carmageddon for holidaymakers.”

She added: “Anyone who can delay leaving on Thursday until much later in the evening or set off as early as possible on Good Friday is likely to have a better journey than those who travel during the peak periods of the day.”