GRITTERS are heading out tonight as the mercury is set to drop below freezing.

Following a couple of days respite, Worcestershire County Council's fleet of 31 gritters will hit the county's primary routes from 8pm.

Latest MET Office forecasts suggest that the county will experience scattered showers during early evening before skies clear, with temperatures expected to drop to -2.

Winter service inspections will take place throughout the weekend to assess the weather and road conditions throughout the county, with Saturday also looking cold and windy with the possibility of an overnight frost.

Motorists are again being urged to drive with caution as gritting is not a miracle solution.

Jon Fraser, county council highways customer and community manager, said: "After a few days respite from gritting and focussing on repairing potholes across the county, our teams will be back on the gritters tonight to treat primary routes.

“The message is the same, but as important as ever - please remember to slow down and leave extra space between yourself and the vehicle in front to allow for extra stopping time in icy conditions.

“Gritting is very effective, but it is not a miracle solution, and I urge all drivers to temper their driving according to the conditions."

Residents can keep up-to-date with #grittertwitter by following the county council's Twitter account @worcscc.

For the latest information on schools closures, along with any disruption to public transport and services, visit worcestershire.gov.uk.