A SCHOOL in Silver End was visited by a gritting lorry one of its pupils named after an ancient conqueror.

Alexander Andrews, from Silver End Primary School, named one of the county’s 64 gritters in a competition.

As part of the competition 10 lorries were given unique identities, including Alexander the Grit.

The school will see a free ice and fire workshop as a prize, courtesy of the Essex Country Parks Outdoor Learning Team.

Alexander, aged 6, said: “I know Alexander the Great is a king and I’m very interested in history. It’s probably why I chose the name, and it’s the same as mine.

“I’ve seen the gritting lorries go down the road, spreading the grit to stop the cars from skidding. I can’t wait to see the lorry and show the rest of the class and my mum.”

Victoria Gooding, head of school, offered the children the chance to enter the competition through the school’s newsletter.

She said: “We are very proud of Alexander winning the Name the Gritter competition.

“We had lots of children come up with very creative suggestions. It is really important our school is part of the community, and the children are very excited to see the gritting lorry on our premises.”

The winners were chosen by Ray Gooding, cabinet member for education at Essex County Council, and Eddie Johnson, cabinet member for highways delivery.

Mr Gooding visited the school today.

He said: “We received some excellent and very imaginative entries from school pupils across Essex.

“I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing them all and am delighted the winners will now get the opportunity to continue their learning by taking part in workshops delivered by our Country Parks staff.”