COMMUNITY volunteers are being sought to help clear snow and ice from Northumberland’s pavements and paths this winter.

Following its success in other parts of the country, Northumberland County Council is introducing a Snow Warden Scheme where an individual or a group of community volunteers can sign up to help clear snow and ice from public footpaths in their local area during periods of severe winter weather.

While there are residents out there already who get involved and are keen to help in their communities the council want to grow this and introduce a more formal scheme where these important volunteers are supported.

The council will provide volunteers with a snow warden kit, which includes a snow shovel, salt, a thermal hat with head torch, a pair of thermal gloves and a hi-vis vest.

Paul Jones, the council’s Director of Local Services, said: “We’ve done a lot of planning to ensure we have the right resources in place.

“Our dedicated Winter Services programme, including scores of staff, a fleet of gritting vehicles and the latest technology, mean clear arrangements are in place to treat our road network and high priority footpaths in town centres during periods of snow and ice.

“However it’s simply not possible to do everything or be everywhere and that’s why we’re appealing to residents to play their part.”