Aberdeen City Council Chief Executive Sue Bruce has praised staff for their hard work during the winter weather.

Mrs Bruce said that despite the difficult conditions council staff were making a mammoth effort to minimise disruption in the city.

Operations include

* Two runs on priority routes during the day

* A team of 12 workers dedicated to ensuring the 800 grit boxes are filled

* Up to 130 people clearing pavements, sheltered housing complexes, shopping areas etc

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* We have access to additional plant equipment

* Diverting additional resources to side roads

Mrs Bruce said: "Teams are working extremely hard to ensure the city runs as smoothly as possible during these difficult winter conditions that are currently affecting the whole of the UK.

"As was the case last year measures have been put in place by senior managers to ensure we do not run out of salt.

"Moreover, as will other local authorities, we have been in regular communication with the Scottish Government keeping ministers abreast of the situation.

"The Scottish Government has made reserves available if we require them, which is most welcome.

"I should stress that the salt stocks in Aberdeen are being very well managed thanks to the forward-planning of our very experienced management team.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff involved for their hard work and the folk of Aberdeen for their patience during this cold snap."

(GK)