Gritters: Blackburn with Darwen road will need servicing Volunteers will be out and about over winter as they prepare to keep shared public spaces free from ice and snow. The Winter Grit Squads, a project set up by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, will be on hand to grit problem areas and clear snow, while also keeping an eye on vulnerable members of their local communities. Each squad consists of a central volunteer, who is in turn supported by their ward councillors and community support officers. When a snow, frost or a cold snap is predicted, the central volunteer is informed and then mobilises their winter squad to grit certain areas, and/or clear snow as and when is appropriate.