BARNSLEY Council’s gritting team are once again on standby after using more than 6,100 tonnes of grit salt last year.

The council’s gritters – aptly named Buzz Ice Clear, Sir Steve Ploughton and Snowbi-Wan Kenobi – are due to be back on the streets.

Last year the council used 6,170 tonnes of grit salt on 615 separate routes, travelling a total of 22,493 miles across the town.

Extreme weather last year, ranging from -11C in January to 20.2C in April, meant the teams were out and about regularly.

Coun James Higginbottom, cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways, said: “Winter is coming and our gritting crew are on standby ready to keep our borough’s roads clear from snow and ice.

“Last year our teams did a fantastic job of keeping our roads safe and moving.

“They’re ready once again to face whatever this winter brings.

“Please remember that grit bins are provided at many locations to help keep the road clear.

“This grit isn’t for use on private property or footways, but you can use it to help grit the roads and keep traffic moving.    

“If you’re travelling in colder weather, don’t forget to check that your vehicle is winter-ready, and leave plenty of time for your journey.”