The council is offering Richmond residents free rock salt this winter to help prevent injuries from slipping on ice.

This new initiative means up to 50kg of rock salt per person is up for grabs to make driveways and footpaths around homes safer to use.

Councillor Peter Buckwell, cabinet member for highways and street scene said: “This is a great new initiative which will help our residents deal with ice on their pathways and avoid nasty accidents that come from slipping on ice.

“Anyone wanting to take advantage of the scheme can come to the Council’s Depot in Langhorn Drive, Twickenham and pick up a bag.”

“Unfortunately, we are unable to make deliveries, so if residents have neighbours who unable to collect for themselves, this is an opportunity to help each other as we approach the season of goodwill.”

The rock salt will be available for collection between Monday, November 20 and Friday, November 25, from 9am to 3pm.

As the depot is a secure area, visitors will need to sign in at the gate reception with photo ID and proof of address.

For further information, contact Garry Whitby (Richmond highways manager) on 020 8891 7023.

The council’s winter gritting service which runs from October to April will continue laying down grit as normal, focusing on roads and public buildings.