13 heartbreaking images show the bitter journey migrants are making through the Balkans to reach western Europe

Winter has arrived in the Balkans and despite bitter conditions, refugees fleeing the war-torn Middle East are continuing to journey across the continent.

Snow, howling winds, and freezing temperatures are now accompanying asylum seekers on their way through Europe.

Volunteers have described seeing children arrive in reception centres with blue lips and shivering from the bitter cold, according to a report from Reuters.

These images - which show people entering Serbia near the village of Miratovac after crossing the border with Macedonia - offer a glimpse of the hardship faced by those attempting to find safety and a better life in Europe.