People urged to get creative as BCP Council launches gritter name competition

The local authority says 'it's snow joke'

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 25th Nov 2025

People in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are being asked to come up with creative names for the council’s fleet of gritters this winter.

The competition is now open, with the best ideas set to appear on more than a dozen vehicles keeping the region’s roads safe.

Anyone wanting to take part can comment on the council’s social media with their suggestions.

The winners will see their names rolling through the streets and shared online in December.

The local authority say they've seen some brilliant names across the UK.

Think “Gritty McGritface” or “Usain Salt” – well, now, it’s your turn to come up with something witty, wintry and wonderful for our local vehicles.

'Bringing some cheer to the colder months'

Cllr Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, said: “This is a great opportunity for residents to get involved and have a bit of fun while learning more about the vital work our gritting teams do.

“It’s a light-hearted way to bring some cheer to the colder months and celebrate the hard work of our highways teams who often work around the clock to keep our roads clear and safe for residents in the icy conditions we can see through the winter. Plus, you’ll maybe see your chosen name rolling through the streets!

“We can’t wait to see your creative ideas!”

BCP Council owns a fleet of 13 gritting vehicles consisting of fixed and demountable gritters and a stock of 4000 tonnes of dry rock salt.

The winter service looks after 780 miles of roads across the BCP region from the first frost.

During snowy and icy weather, the road temperatures are monitored by a series of weather stations across the region to allow targeted gritting.

The top name suggestions will be chosen with the winning names proudly displayed on their gritters.

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.