AJ Snow-Dudu and Graham & Leanne’s Grit on the Side roll out as Blackburn names its gritters

A Blackburn-born TV star and two familiar local radio voices have been honoured in a uniquely Lancashire way – with gritters named after them!

Blackburn with Darwen Council has unveiled AJ Snow-dudu, a winter gritter named in honour of former Strictly contestant and Big Brother presenter AJ Odudu, alongside Graham and Leanne’s Grit on the Side, named after the popular BBC Radio Lancashire podcast.

The special naming was revealed at a photocall at the Council’s Davyfield Road depot, where our gritters dashed back from doing their rounds as the sleet fell this morning.

Radio presenters Graham and Leanne joined Deputy Council Leader, Cllr Julie Gunn, to celebrate the borough’s winter services and the people behind them.

Although unable to attend in person, due to filming commitments, AJ – who was born and raised in Blackburn – shared her delight about the news.

The fun initiative forms part of Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Part of Your Story campaign, which highlights council services in action and showcases the everyday work that helps keep residents safe – particularly during the winter months.

Council gritters play a vital role during cold and icy conditions, helping to keep over 150 miles of our boroughs roads moving, supporting emergency services and ensuring people can get to work, school and essential appointments.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Cllr Julie Gunn said the gritter naming was a light-hearted way to connect residents with an essential service.

“Our gritters are out day and night during winter, often without people seeing the work they do,” Julie said.
“Giving them names that residents recognise and smile about is a great way to shine a spotlight on the service – and to celebrate people who have strong connections to our borough. Please do give them a wave when you see them out and about.”

Graham and Leanne said they were delighted – and slightly amused – to see their podcast name rolling out onto the roads.

“We never thought ‘Grit on the Side’ would become quite so literal,” they joked.
“It’s a real honour!”

As part of the photocall, framed certificates were presented to mark the gritter names, recognising the role local media plays in bringing communities together and AJ’s hometown pride.

Residents are now being encouraged to keep an eye out for AJ Snow-Dudu and Graham and Leanne’s Grit on the Side as winter continues – they proudly join Grit Sutton and Alan Clearer – all playing their part in keeping the borough on the move.