A fleet of nine-strong gritters, named after TV personalities, athletes and cartoon characters are geared up to cut through the ice and frost this winter after weeks of preparations.

Usain Salt, Sir Gritalot and Melty Micky, are amongst the team ready for the Christmas season.  

West Berkshire Council has conducted tests on the gritters so they are ready to deal with 2,500 tonnes of salt which is currently stocked for use across the borough.

Roads are salted when temperatures are near freezing, typically before the morning or evening rush hours, as these are peak times for frost and ice

Over 446 salt bins, owned and maintained by Parish/Town Councils, are available across the district for residents to use on public roads and paths during icy conditions.