SNOW and ice were set to wreak havoc across the country today and over the weekend.

Councils have been filling up grit bins across East Lancashire in preparation for the big freeze.

But some selfish people and businesses have decided to raid the council-provided bins for personal use on their driveways and paths.

Residents, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, rely on these supplies to stop their streets and roads from becoming hazardous.

The culprits are showing a lack of community spirit by taking the grit instead of visiting a local DIY store to buy their own.

While it is not a criminal offence to take the grit, it is unethical.

Lancashire County Council has faced a gritting shortage in the past due to the prolonged wintry conditions and supplies were even imported from abroad a few years ago.

It has managed to stock up on supplies in preparation for this latest cold snap. Bags of free grit have also been handed out by Hyndburn Council.

People should heed the county council’s warning and stop taking it before someone is seriously injured by a nasty fall on the ice.