Salford's gritters keep the city moving

Salford's gritters worked around the clock to keep the city's roads clear and open this weekend.

More than 180 tonnes of salt were applied to 2,500 kilometres of the city's roads over the weekend, with a steady stream of workers heading out over the 72 hour period.

This kept the city's residents moving and meant sports fans were able to get to the first Reds' game of the season at the new Salford City Stadium.

Councillor Ray Mashiter, lead member for environment at Salford City Council, said: "The team has done a brilliant job keeping things moving over the weekend and that is thanks in part to our preparations, making sure we had the gritters ready to go.

"But while we want to keep the streets clear for those who need to go out, we would discourage the elderly or those with mobility problems from going out when the streets get icy.

"For them our advice would be to get prepared for winter and make sure you have supplies in the house, just in case you can't get out for a day or two. It's also worth speaking to friends and family now to see who would be able to pick you up a few items in an emergency."

Salford City Council's advice for preparing for the winter freeze:

Make sure you have a good supply of your medication in the house, just in case you can't get out for a couple of days.
Stock up on the basics - long-life milk, food that you can heat up easily, matches if you need to light a fire or gas cooker.

Keep yourself and your home warm by wearing extra layers, turning up the heating - even if it's just in one room - and have plenty of hot drinks.

Speak to a friend or relative to see if they would be able to help you out with shopping if the weather gets too bad for you to go out, or just drop in to check on you.

If it gets icy, please don't go out unless absolutely necessary.

If there is heavy snow, the council will post information on our winter weather page, or you can contact Salford City Council on 0161 794 4711.