More than 1,600 Sutton residents prepared for the predicted cold weather by collecting free grit supplies.

Despite temperatures hitting 29 degrees just a week before, the icy temperatures predicted for later this month inspired residents to head to three sites across the borough to collect supplies provided by Sutton Council.

It follows the success of a scheme last year when more than 10,000 homes were issued with grit – and comes after forecasters predicted snow could fall in the coming weeks.

Last year, around one bag of grit for every 10 households in the borough was distributed - an average of a bag of grit for every 50m of road.

So far 1,671 10kg bags have been handed out – about double the amount claimed during the first week last year.

Councillor Simon Wales, Sutton Council’s executive member for communities, transport and voluntary sector, said: “It might seem strange to be handing out free grit a week after we experienced record warm temperatures, but we need to be prepared, and judging by the number of people who turned up, residents want to be prepared too.

“The response so far has been phenomenal, and shows that residents are happy and keen to get involved in clearing their driveways and nearby pavements and helping elderly neighbours out.

“By working together, council staff are free to concentrate on busy roads, shopping areas and hospitals.

"When it snows there will be thousands of people helping to keep our borough moving.”

Residents can collect the free grit over the next two weekends from B&Q in Carshalton Road, Sutton; Woodcote Green Garden Centre and Nurseries, in Woodmansterne Lane and Kimpton Park Way Reuse and Recycling Centre. People will be able to get 10 per cent off a snow shovel when they collect their grit from B&Q.

The early winter has been predicted by Exacta Weather, with one forecaster saying: “I expect to see the first signs of some moderate to heavy snowfalls as early as October or November.”

The free grit offer has since been mirrored by a number of councils across the country, including Lambeth and Hyndburn in Lancashire.

Residents are being invited to help their elderly friends and neighbours or people without cars by collecting the free grit on their behalf.