Salt is in plentiful supply and gritters are on standby as Gloucestershire County Council looks to avoid a repeat of last winter.

During a period of icy conditions in February, salt supplies ran out and only selected roads were gritted.

Now, gritters are on standby and salt stocks are piled high as the council prepares to keep the county moving this winter.

Thirty three gritters have been on standby since October 31 in preparation for icy conditions should they arrive.

Meanwhile, salt stocks have been increased by an additional 2,500tonnes compared to last year and all three highways depots – Cirencester, Stroudwater and Cannop in the Forest of Dean - are at full storage capacity.

Salt will be re-ordered throughout the winter to ensure this increased capacity is maintained.

Councillor Stan Waddington, cabinet member for environment, said: "While it is rare to see the conditions we experienced last winter, we wanted to make sure we were ready should the worst happen.

"The salt shortage of last winter was out of our control but we have been working with suppliers to ensure, as much as we can, that it doesn't happen again.

"Keeping the county moving is one of our top priorities and in severe weather we will do everything possible to keep the main roads open.

"Last year our crews did a fantastic job of clearing the roads in the extreme weather and I know that we're already geared up to deal with whatever this winter brings.

"However, it is important to note that whilst Gloucestershire County Council is responsible for helping to keeping roads free of ice and snow, it is also the responsibility of every road user to drive safely in wintry conditions.

"If we do have bad weather, I would encourage everyone using the roads to take extra care."