SANDWELL Council bosses have praised their gritting teams for unloading 400 tonnes of salt throughout the area.

Traffic was moving on the main roads through Oldbury, Cradley Heath, Blackheath and Rowley Regis this morning despite some of the worst snow in 20 years.

Crews spent 12 hours gritting hundreds of miles of roads from 5pm last night to 5am today.

It ensured the main routes were clear for last night's journeys home and for the rush-hour this morning.

Councillor Mahboob Hussain, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and housing, said: "Nearly 400 tonnes of salt were put down on the roads despite the heavy snow falls.

"We are conscious that we have concentrated on the main roads so today it is hoped we can salt some of the side roads as well.

He said: "We will also be re-stocking grit bins where possible.”

Cllr Hussain said he was pleased that a number of people had contacted the council and local radio stations praising the condition of the main routes in the borough.

"A lot of planning and hard work goes into this operation and The staff concerned deserve the highest praise.

He added: "I am also pleased to say that we still have more than adequate stocks of salt available."