COMMUTERS in Mid Devon are being encouraged to share transport and save cash under a new initiative.

Devon County Council is championing the Car Share Devon website, which already has hundreds of registered members.

Under the scheme, commuters who regularly take the same route are able to arrange lift shares, meaning people can take turns driving to work.

Highways chief Councillor Stuart Hughes said: “Record prices at the pumps are really hitting drivers hard so it's important we encourage people to consider car sharing.

“It could help save you hundreds of pounds and make your commute more enjoyable.

“You'll be doing your bit for the environment and saving yourself the stress of having to drive every day.”

As an incentive to join the scheme, anyone signing up before February 28 will be entered into a prize draw to win a tank of fuel.

The carsharedevon website features a simple calculator to work out your potential savings by entering your travel details such as mileage and how often you drive.

For more information go to www.carsharedevon.com.