Snow problem for kids in competition
Gritter name call
West Lothian kids have the chance to name some of the council’s more recognisable vehicles.
As gritters prepare ahead of the winter period, they’re set for brand-new names as part of the annual Winter Ready campaign. And school pupils in West Lothian are being encouraged to come up with names for West Lothian’s fleet of gritting vehicles. The competition launched this week and runs until Monday, November 5, at 5pm. A panel of gritter experts, which includes drivers, will whittle down the list of entries and select finalists that will go forward to the public vote.
Executive councillor for the environment, Tom Conn, said: “Last winter, West Lothian was affected by its first ever red weather warning event. The extreme conditions affected the entire council area and were concentrated over a four- day period.
“‘The Beast from the East’ was a reminder that severe winter weather is hugely disruptive but during that time when many people were housebound, our teams were out working to get West Lothian moving and care for those in need. I am sure that there will be plenty of good names put forward. However, the serious message behind the competition is to recognise the work that our staff do which often goes unnoticed, and to raise awareness of how important it is for everyone to be Winter Ready. Thank you to all our staff who work on a 24/7 schedule over the winter period, often through the night.”
The suggestion period will run until Monday, November 5, at 5pm. The names are whittled down by a judging panel including our gritter drivers.
The community will be invited to vote on their winners through the council’s Twitter page @ lovewestlothian and Facebook page www. facebook. com/ westlothiancouncil.