Helpers wanted for snow clearing duty in Telford

The wardens will be provided with access to salt and tools to clear roads and pavements in their local area, Telford & Wrekin Council bosses said.

Volunteers will receive training and a summary of the council's winter maintenance policy, and get an insight into how weather forecasting works.

As well as the training they will also be issued with equipment and covered by the council's insurance.

They will be risk assessed and, when the weather demands, will be sent one tonne bags of salt to use to improve local roads.

Snow wardens will need to have access to a mobile phone or the internet to receive weather information and alerts on gritting during the periods of extreme weather.

Volunteers can be community groups or individuals from areas routinely treated as part of the council's normal winter maintenance routes.

To register an interest in becoming a neighbourhood snow warden visit www.telford.gov.uk/snowwardens or call (01952) 384000.

Councillor Shaun Davies, cabinet member for neighbourhood services and co-operative council, said: "As a co-operative council we really encourage and support the community to get involved in many different ways. The neighbourhood snow warden initiative will provide extra help and support in places where it is most needed.

"Telford & Wrekin Council already treats a higher proportion of roads than many other councils. But this is over and above our current winter service, and it will make a difference to local roads not on our gritting routes as well as footpaths.

"We have a continuous flow of new people coming forward to offer their time and looking for opportunities to volunteer.

"We will also work with local businesses if they want to do their bit for the local community.

"Other councils are trialling similar initiatives."