City of Wolverhampton Council is calling for more volunteers to sign up to the council's snow clearing scheme 'Snow Wolves' in preparation for the winter period.

Type=image;ImageID=14336;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Join the Snow Wolves;TitleClass=strong;

Type=image;ImageID=16689;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Clearing snowfall;TitleClass=strong;

Snow Wolves has around 220 dedicated volunteers who lend their community a helping hand, clearing snow and ice from neighbours' pavements and driveways.

Now in its third year, the council is looking to drum up more volunteers to join the pack, with the aim to hit the 1,000 mark by the end of the year.

Volunteers will receive a free snow shovel, two 3kg shaker tubs of rock salt and a high visibility vest to carry out the works.

In return, the Snow Wolves are asked to make a commitment to use the equipment for the benefit of their community in the event of heavy snow and ice, complementing the council's winter service.

Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment, said: "By joining our team of Snow Wolves you will be a true hero for your community when the weather takes a turn for the worst.

"Our highways team do a fantastic job, but can't always reach residential areas.

"In the event of heavy snow and ice, it is the council's priority to grit and clear the priority highway network to keep the roads safe and moving - ensuring the city doesn't grind to a halt.

"This vital work means that we can't always get out to treat some residential areas as quickly as we would like to - that's where Snow Wolves come in.

"Last year was one of the coldest winters we've had in years, which proved just how important our Snow Wolves are to support our winter service.

"Our team of volunteers braved the snow and ice to clear pavements and doorsteps of elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents. They did an amazing job - but we still need more people who know their local areas to pitch in and help their neighbours who need a little help to reach areas we can't.

"If this sounds like you, I strongly encourage you to sign up and join our fantastic team.

Many Snow Wolves have been praised by their neighbours for their hard work in assuring their streets, pathways and driveways are accessible and safe to use.  

Volunteer Ahsan Saeed, who joined Snow Wolves last winter, said: "It was great to be able to help my local community. The scheme allowed us to have the amenities to help local elderly people by defrosting and clearing walkways and pathways.

"The roads were also rather hazardous with cars skidding a great deal, the shovel helped by allowing us to make a clear way for vehicles to get out of the street safely.

"Overall, Snow Wolves is a great initiative and really helps those who need it most."

Snow Wolves packs will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. Applicants should be physically fit and aged over 18. Anyone interested in joining the Snow Wolves can find out more at Type=articles;Articleid=7958;Title=Snow Wolves snow clearing scheme;.

  • released: Friday 2 November, 2018