Grit-asaurus Rex among new names for gritters

Grit-asaurus Rex, Taylor Drift and Feathers McGrit are among the names that have been chosen for a fleet of road gritters.

Thousands of children across Gloucestershire's primary schools took part in the naming competition organised by the county council and its fleet partner Ringway ahead of the busy winter period.

The 29 gritters were unveiled with their names printed on them at a ceremony at Stroudwater Highways Depot in Fromebridge on Thursday.

Councillor Joe Harris, cabinet member for highways, said it was a great example of "linking up" gritting teams and schools which he described as two "fundamental parts of the community".

It was uplifting to see the "joy on the children's faces" when the names were announced, he added.

Mr Harris said he approved of the children's "really imaginative" suggestions, which also included Benji the Baltic Blaster, Gritting McQueen and Grit Britain, but added that the council had received "lots of entries and a few naughty ones in there that were probably suggested by the parents".

He also praised "the really dedicated teams" who were often "out at all hours" gritting and ploughing to keep the roads clear for vehicles during the coldest parts of the year.

Among the 540 names suggested by the children Ice Vadar, Gritsy Wincy Spider, BFG (Big Friendly Gritter) and Veruca Salt also made the cut.

During the colder months, Gloucestershire's gritters are expected to cover 66,000 miles - the equivalent of more than twice around the Earth's equator.

The vehicles and their drivers are supported by more than 5,000 salt bins which are regularly checked and topped up.

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