A FLEET of gritters are on standby to treat Barnsley’s 321-mile road network.

This week’s cold snap, which saw the first frosts of the period, saw preparations step up for the distribution of up to 12,000 tonnes of grit which has been stocked since the summer.

Barnsley Council’s fleet will work throughout the winter up to March next year.

Residents have been encouraged to follow @BarnsleyHighways on Twitter for local gritting updates and winter road safety tips.

Cabinet spokesman Coun Chris Lamb said: “It’s beginning to feel chilly in Barnsley, and as the temperature starts to drop towards zero and below, we’re prepared to tackle snow and ice on our roads.

“Last year was a milder winter, but our highways team did a fantastic job of maintaining our roads by sending out their gritters 311 times, using 3,800 tonnes of grit and travelling a total of 11,139 miles throughout the winter period.

“Please take care when travelling in colder weather, check that your vehicle is winter ready and leave plenty of time to get to your destination in adverse weather.”

For more information on gritting routes and grit bin locations, visit barnsley.gov.uk/gritting.