It is clear that councils in Sussex were caught out by the first serious frost and snow of the winter.

There is nothing more terrifying for a driver than losing control on an icy road, and pedestrians risk injury on ice-bound pavements.

With hundreds of roads and pavements under their control, councils would find it difficult to grit every one.

Councils do have a responsibility to grit major roads and pavements when there is a sign of icy conditions, even if it is just after Christmas and staff are on an extended break.

In many parts of Sussex, this was not done and major routes in Brighton and Hove remained ungritted For days it was known that temperatures were dropping and snow was on its way.

It seems the only people not listening to the weather forecasts were those responsible for ensuring the roads were treated.

Residents are justifiably angry if gritting is not carried out when snow falls as this is one of the services for which they pay, increasing council taxes.