LANCASHIRE County Council's transport boss is urging motorists to prepare fore the sudden cold snap forecast for this weekend.

Cllr Keith Iddon has also asked people to keep and eye on vulnerable friends and relatives in the coming wintry conditions,

He said resident's winter checklist should include stocking up on salt to treat icy paths around the home, preparing their vehicle for cold conditions, or making sure vulnerable neighbours are warm and well.

The county council's fleet of gritters is ready to treat 1,800 miles of high priority roads within four hours whenever a freeze is forecast.

Highway teams have been restocking over 2,600 grit bins.

Cllr Iddon said: "We're ready for winter and do all we can to keep traffic moving on the busiest roads..

"It's important that everyone does their bit to make sure they're prepared for cold and icy weather.

"Now is the ideal time to check your car tyres, battery, lights, indicators, windscreen wipers and washers and coolant level.

"We'd also ask people to remember to drive according to the conditions in winter.

"Winter can be a difficult time for vulnerable people, and we'd ask people to keep an eye on friends, relatives and neighbours.

"Please check that vulnerable people are keeping warm, and see whether they might need help with shopping or visiting the doctor."

"Grit bins play a vital part in helping to keep our roads and pavements safe.

"I'd like to emphasise this salt is only for use on roads and pavements, and we'd ask people to use it responsibly."