Doncaster’s gritting fleet hits the roads as temperatures plunge below zero

It is expected they will be in service for the next five months, helping to keep the borough's major roads free from ice and snow to help motorists stay safe and keep moving.

With the first heavy frost of the season this week, standing water from the Autumn's heavy rainfall could create an additional hazard for drivers if it freezes over.

Doncaster Council has predetermined routes, covering up to 330 miles of road, which can be gritted as and when necessary.

They use rock salt which is stockpiled at the North Bridge depot but operate on routes across the borough.

The council has also joined forces with its neighbours to help residents who travel across council boundaries keep up to date with road conditions, gritting progress and other information.

Doncaster Council uses the Twitter name @MyDoncaster to put out its own information, but it is acknowledged commuters travelling between council areas may need more regional information.

As a result, Doncaster, Sheffield, Rotherham and Barnsley will also use the #SYgrit hashtag to help social media users track information updates from all four authorities.

Doncaster council Assistant Director of Environment, Gill Gillies, said: "When the thermostat drops to around freezing temperature, it is the signal for us to click in to gear.

"We'll be out in all weather and at all times of day to keep people moving.

"Last year was a touch on the mild side by the standards we've come to expect in recent years but the gritters still went out a total of 40 times.

"You’ll be aware that we’ve had a lot of rain lately so roads may be wet and therefore icy so, as always, we would encourage people to take care when travelling in colder weather by whatever mode of transport.

"Always leave plenty of time to get to your destination in adverse weather."