As gritters take to the roads in Wiltshire despite not a flake of snow falling, The Standard looks at the reason why and uncovers some very unusual facts about gritters too.

  1. Gritters take part in 'dry runs' during warmer weather so drivers can familiarise themselves with the routes they will have to undertake when called into action.
  2. 24 gritting vehicles are ready to treat Wiltshire's main roads, that includes 25 per cent of the county's roads including primary A and B roads, and 50 per cent of the network in severe conditions.
  3. With more than 13,000 tonnes of salt in stock strategically placed throughout the county in six storage sites, the council's winter maintenance team is more prepared than ever.
  4. A team of 24 drivers are on standby throughout to be called into action at any time.
  5. Wiltshire Council have also invested in six tractors which can assist.
  6. Last winter gritters were deployed 80 times on the council's primary network, with 12,200 tonnes of salt spread on Wiltshire's roads.
  7. On average it can take up to 140 tonnes of salt to grit Wiltshire's major roads and 230 tonnes to salt an extended list of roads during prolonged cold weather.
  8. During severe weather local farmers also have an important role to play, with many clearing snow in their communities when required.