GRITTERS will be out on Worcestershire's roads tonight for the first time this winter.

Worcestershire County Council announced the gritters will be sent out with temperatures plummeting.

A spokesman said: "Dry this evening and tonight with banks of cloud alternating with clear periods - road temps are likely to fall close to zero under prolonged clear periods

"For the first time this winter season, we're gritting tonight from 7pm - please take care on the roads."

We previously reported how the council had invested in new gritters to keep the roads safe this winter.

The total number of gritters that Worcestershire County Council have is 36, with the council saying it is in a "very good position" to meet any challenges this winter may have in store.

The gritters are equipped with technology which allows them to be tracked live throughout gritting operations.

The new gritters will improve safety for drivers and workers due to the vehicles' improved technology, set-up and enhanced visibility.

The County Council has 16,750 tonnes of salt, stored in depots across the County and ready to be used ahead of the new season.

Stock levels are monitored constantly and replenished when necessary, with gritting teams managing more than 50,000 miles in total last winter.

That is the equivalent of more than twice around the world.

The Council also has 1,320 grit bins across the county of Worcestershire and these are maintained with stocks of a salt/grit mixture.

They are provided for use on the public highway only (including footways).

Residents can also locate their nearest grit bin, via the County Council website.