Mmmm thanks for the replies everyone. Seems like I made a sweeping generalisation that i'm glad has been cleared up on here.
Just to add - I wasnt too specific to the conditions and as mentioned we were not actually in cloud, just below the base and yes, we had precipitation of the snow kind and therefore my instructor passed this comment on.
Although you're all totally correct and I have no place or experience to speak over you I can't help feeling that being aware that you will be able to see ice forming on the tyre (be it after the airframe) that its something to keep in the back of your mind? Afterall, every little helps?
I cant speak from experience but how easy it is to see ice forming on a strut with little distinguishing coloured background?
Any thoughts?