HAMPSHIRE'S worst hit residential and rural roads will be gritted this weekend to help combat the icy conditions.

A mixture of sand and grit is being used in place of salt on the worst affected areas across the county from today.

Unlike salt, the sand and grit will not melt the snow but it will provide improved grip on icy surfaces.

But civic chiefs at Hampshire County Council say the priority is to treat the main road network with the remaining salt stocks.

Councillor Ken Thornber, Leader of Hampshire County Council said: "Most of the main roads are now passable and we are targeting our remaining salt stock on keeping this safe and passable.

"We are keen to make progress on the side and 'B' roads, so that more residential and rural routes are accessible.

"In the meantime, I would remind everyone that they must still be cautious when getting around and, if driving, to take note of the conditions and drive appropriately. It will not be possible however, to get to all side roads and pavements and a systematic process of working through these in priority order is in place.

"The busiest pavements, shopping centres and approaches to stations and health facilities have been tackled using this same mixture.

"We have as many staff as possible, including other contractors, people from our countryside service and household waste recycling centres working together with highways staff, helping to clear pavements with shovels, and spreading the sand and grit mix by hand.

"Our district and borough partners are also helping with this and the work will continue over the weekend.

"I would like to repeat my thanks to Hampshire's residents who have pulled together in the past few weeks, clearing their own paths and driveways, and those of their neighbours who were unable to do so themselves. "These are exceptional circumstances and it is good to know we are all doing our bit to help."