SCHOOL pupils across Somerset have come up with creative names for new gritters set to hit county roads – and it is now up to the public to have the final say.

Somerset Council worked with schools to come up with ‘cool’ new names for two gritters joining the council’s 23-strong fleet, to help boost awareness of winter road safety and give the vehicles some personality.

Now, a shortlist from the youngsters’ names has been finalised, and it is down to the public to choose their favourite.

The full list of names chosen by pupils:

• Elsa
• Gritty Gritty Bang Bang
• Snow Dragon
• Snow Problem
• Spready Mercury
• Wallace and Gritter

The chosen names will be emblazoned on the side of the vehicles and the school which provides the winning names will also receive a visit from the gritter.

To vote for your favourite, click here or visit Somerset Council’s Facebook page or X accounts. The closing date for votes is this Friday, October 25 at 5pm.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s lead member for transport and waste, said: “Thank you to all the schools who took part, we had some amazing, unique and creative name suggestions – it was difficult to choose our shortlist.

“We can’t wait to see the new gritters on the road this winter. This engagement is raising vital awareness regarding road safety during dangerous winter months.

“Please be patient while our gritters are out working, they are providing an essential service to help keep us all safe on the road.”

Somerset Council said more than 900km of gritting routes are planned to be treated this winter and the council has stockpiled more than 6,400 tonnes of salt and filled more than 800 grit bins across the county.

Road gritting involves spreading rock salt on roads to prevent ice and snow build up, giving car tyres better grip.

The council said gritting teams will be running trials as the temperature falls and will start to grit roads when the weather drops below 0.5 degrees.

Allan Rigby, general manager at Kier, said: “Preparing for winter is a year-round task, and we are ready for any quick changes in weather conditions – with our gritting fleet now mobilised, and crews on standby 24/7.

“This naming competition is a great opportunity to engage community in the works that we do to keep people safe during the winter period.

“We look forward to seeing how the public cast their vote, and visiting the schools to unveil the names of our new gritters – while sharing key winter safety messages.”