A CONSERVATIVE candidate has been told he could be sued if he grits a pavement outside his home.

Earlier this week, Paul Bristow sent an email to customer services at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council asking for advice about gritting the path in Coatham Road, Redcar, east Cleveland.

The council replied: “Rock salt can be purchased at most DIY stores but, due to the demand, they may have sold out.

As an alternative we have been advised that cooking salt or cat litter can be used with the same effect.

“You could run the risk of legal action should anyone hurt themselves as a result of gritting the pavement yourself.”

Mr Bristow, who is standing in the Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland seat at the General Election, said: “It’s a sad state of affairs that health and safety laws are discouraging residents clearing ice.”