It’s still only feeling like autumn at the moment, but Sutton Council is planning ahead in case there is yet another cold winter… Residents and businesses in Sutton are to be given a supply of free grit for the fourth year running and are being asked to be community-minded when collecting their supplies. Each household and business can collect 10kg of grit to use on footpaths, pavements or roads in front of their homes or premises as the borough prepares for the cold weather predicted to come before the end of the year.

In addition to this, Sutton is looking for good Samaritans to also collect grit for their elderly friends and neighbours who may not be able to collect themselves.

The council successfully pioneered the scheme – which has been copied by other authorities around the country. In previous years, the council gave out grit to more than 10,000 residents.

Cllr. Jill Whitehead, Chair of Sutton’s Environment and Neighbourhoods Committee, said: “This scheme is an excellent example of the council and residents working together to help each other.

“Council gritters will be on hand to do main roads, bus routes and roads around hospitals, GPs surgeries and schools when required, but it is impossible for them to reach everywhere.

“This is a practical, value-for-money solution to a problem and exemplifies the Sutton way of people helping each other out to get things done.”

The free grit will be available for four weekends in October, 5/6 12/13, 19/20 and 26/27 from four locations around the borough.

It is available from B&Q in Carshalton Road, Sutton, Woodcote Green Garden Centre & Nurseries in Woodmansterne Lane, Kimpton Park Way Reuse and Recycling Centre and The Mount in Clockhouse. At Kimpton Park Way residents have to bring their own container for the grit, but you can log on to www.sutton.gov.uk/kimptonwebcam to check if there is a queue before you go.  In order to claim your free grit you will need to bring your Sutton Council tax bill/business rates (NNDR) or a current utility bill. And anyone who wants to help a neighbour can bring along one of their bills and collect the grit on their behalf.

Residents who currently receive an assisted bin collection can have the grit delivered to them. Simply call 020 8770 5070 for details.

For details on how to use the grit go to www.sutton.gov.uk/gritting.