Ready for winter

SHETLAND Islands Council has reassured drivers it is well-equipped to deal with winter weather as the isles get ready to experience the first snow of the season this weekend.

The authority has bolstered its fleet of 18 road gritters this year with eight new replacement vehicles.

Two of the gritters are unibody trucks that can be used for other purposes, such as transporting tar.

The council also has “significant” supplies of road salt, with 5,000 tonnes held at the Scord Quarry and elsewhere around Shetland.

Another 5,000 tonnes is on order, which they say is generally enough to last a “severe” winter.

SIC environment and transport chairman Michael Stout advised locals to “plan ahead” for the next few months and be prepared for snow and ice.