Volcanic ash grounds flights across UK

Flights are grinding to a halt as ash from Iceland's volcanic eruption moved into UK airspace.

Airports faced massive disruption with Heathrow and Stansted suspending flights from midday.

Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow airports were shut while airports across the rest of the UK were also badly affected.

A BAA spokesman said: "Due to airspace restrictions, in accordance with international regulations as a result of the on-going volcanic activity in Iceland, we anticipate that all flights in and out of Heathrow and Stansted airports will be suspended from 1200 today.

"Therefore, we strongly advise passengers intending to fly from this time not to travel to the airport today.

"We will provide further updates as we get more information from air traffic control provider Nats (National Air Traffic Service)."

Budget airline Ryanair says it will not be operating any further flights to or from the UK for the rest of Thursday, with more cancellations and delays expected on Friday.