VILLAGERS have taken delivery of a portable gritter in a bid to keep their streets clear of ice.

The residents of Barton, near Richmond, have received a handheld salt spreader to help keep their streets safe during winter.

They are one of ten communities which Richmondshire District Council has chosen to receive the equipment.

The authority bought ten spreaders to send out on loan to parish councils in need of help during the winter months.

They were handed out on a first-come, first-served basis to the parishes of Gayles, Scorton, Hipswell, Scotton, Barton, Richmond, Newton-le-Willows, Middleham, Burton-cum-Walden and Hawes.

The ten communities have to nominate a person in the parish who is willing to grit the footpaths and pavements to make them safer for the people living there.

“Barton Parish Council is delighted to receive the gritter from Richmondshire District Council – it will help ensure our paths are kept clear of ice and ensure the safety of our residents in icy conditions,” said parish council chair, Phil Porteous.

The authority has received cash for the scheme from North Yorkshire County Council’s public health team.