County bosses say winter travel chaos could be avoided this year if a scheme to recruit snow wardens is a success.

Around 30 parishes signed up for the voluntary scheme when it was launched last winter, and Devon County Council is hoping to swell the ranks before next winter arrives.

Parishes that sign up will be provided with five tonnes of free salt.

An appointed snow warden would then decide how the salt should be used in the event of heavy snow.

Snow wardens will be trained by the council, and snow clearance would be covered by the council’s insurance.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: “The snow warden scheme is about giving parish councils local ownership and supporting them in providing self-help in their local community during the winter.

“Parish councils know what their priorities are in terms of maintaining access to their community buildings and primary schools, and they would be able to determine their local need.”