Gritters back in the usual routine...

Oldham’s fleet of gritters worked overnight to ensure key highways were open for today’s shivering return to work.

The eight-strong team of vehicles kept up a regular shuttle service on major routes throughout the night.

Mark Alcock, Cabinet member for infrastructure and the environment, said: “We are very well-sourced. We actually have stocks of salt to see us through until Friday should the snow continue throughout this week.

“We have additional supplies on order — unlike some other authorities which have been compelled to use ordinary table salt on the highways.”

Last week, Councillor Alcock revealed the council had already spent more than £540,000 on the massive gritting and snow plough operation to ensure travellers a safe passage.

And he criticised neighbouring authorities who had not cleared snow at the Oldham borders causing major road closures and diversions for travellers.

Tony Noblet, Oldham’s highways supremo, said: “Gritting teams have again been out all night.

“They are very dedicated and are doing a great job.”

Overnight weather brought several more inches of snow on cross-Pennine routes which was made more hazardous with low-lying fog causing traffic to move cautiously through Saddleworth.

The snow came in waves across the borough throughout the night.