In a statement yesterday, the council praised the ‘wonderful ideas’ proposed by the participants of its naming competition, which received nearly 1,500 entries altogether.

The winning entries were chosen by the local authority’s gritter drivers, who selected a total of 30 names inspired by local leaders and landmarks, musicians, scientists, writers, and athletes.

Among the successful suggestions were Claudia Sprinkleman, Agatha Gritstie, Professor Stephen Thawking, Elvis Spreadley, and Sir Roger Ban-ice-ster.

The council’s 30-asset gritting fleet treats roughly 42% of the county’s road network, which the local authority has highlighted is one of the highest rates in England.

Cllr Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: ‘Thank you to everyone who took part in helping us name these gritters. It’s been great fun and Oxfordshire’s residents have come up with some wonderful ideas.

‘Our gritter drivers do an amazing job at the most unsociable hours and in the coldest temperatures, helping to make our roads safer. If you do find yourself behind one of them, which are restricted to 30mph when they are carrying out their work, so please be patient and considerate – they are there to keep you safe.

‘And remember that while we make great efforts to keep roads clear in winter, drivers must never assume that a road will be free from ice and should adjust their driving to suit the conditions.’

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