Nottinghamshire County Council have begun their preparations for potential adverse weather this year.

Last winter saw 109 outings for the council's 30-strong fleet of gritters which are driven by their fleet of Via drivers.

This year, preparations have once again seen 17,000 tonnes of salt arrive in Nottinghamshire to be stored at four depots.

Between October 2020 and April 2021, the council's team of gritting drivers drove over 101,000 miles and spent the equivalent of 16 days and nights nonstop on Nottinghamshire's roads.

The last year has also seen winter teams respond to flooding and storms despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Chairman of the Transport and Environment Committee, said: "Winter is almost upon us again, and thanks to the work of Council and Via staff we are well prepared and stocked for the coming season.

"Last winter saw a number of significant flood events, and we would like to assure our communities that we are here to protect and support them in all weathers.

"Of course, we cannot predict what kind of winter we will face, however, by ensuring preparations continue all year round, we are in a good position should adverse weather arrive in Nottinghamshire.

"Although restrictions due to the pandemic have now eased compared to this time last year, our winter operations will still operate with the safety of our staff at the heart of them.

"From tomorrow (1 October) our dedicated team of Via gritter drivers will go on part-time stand-by. This marks the start of winter, which for them, will often mean being out at night on one of 23 gritting routes, treating the 1,712km of road while we are enjoying time at home with our families.

"We would also like to recognise other staff who will be busy supporting communities in the months ahead to make sure that we are there for you in all weathers."

For further information visit the council's winter weather and disruption page which can be found here .