150 ask to be Snow Wolves and clear paths and driveways

The city council launched an appeal three weeks ago for 1,000 people to come forward to act as 'Snow Wolves' in vulnerable neighbourhoods.

Despite having nowhere near 1,000 volunteers, bosses say they are not disappointed, saying it will take time to build up numbers.

They have asked people to sign up to clearing their local pavements and the doorsteps of elderly or disabled neighbours.

Wolverhampton Mayor, Councillor Ian Brookfield, is among those who have registered to help out.

Each volunteer is given a snow shovel, two 3kg shaker tubs of rock salt and a high-visibility vest in return for a commitment to act when needed.

Wolves mascots Wendy and Wolfie have also signed up.

The scheme has been created to complement the council's winter service arrangements which will continue as usual. Councillor Brookfield said: "Lots of people have already signed up to become snow wolves and do their bit.

"It's really encouraging to see plenty of people wanting to get involved.

"Luckily we've had a reasonably mild winter so far but there are still a good few weeks until the spring and we could still get significant snow." Similar schemes operate in other parts of the region, including Walsall and Sandwell.

Walsall launched its scheme to find 250 'Snow Champions' in January last year and after its first three weeks, fewer than 50 people had expressed an interest. Sandwell Council's campaign is running for a fifth year.

To help out in Wolverhampton, applicants, who need to be physically fit and aged over 18, can sign up to join the scheme through the website www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/snowwolves