CIVIC chiefs are urging residents to sign up to a car sharing scheme, which they say will help tackle the "climate and ecological emergency."

Dorset Council also claims that by joining the Car Share Dorset initiative individuals could save, on average, up to £1,000 per year.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council environment member, said: "I encourage those who can to car share.

"By doing so you will be helping us in tackling the climate and ecological emergency.

"It is also a fantastic way to get to know your colleagues and neighbours even better."

The council is also offering a free valet service for one winner, to be selected at random and contacted by March 13.

To be in with a chance of winning sign up by the end of February.

A Dorset Council spokesman said: "Signing up is easy, all you need to do is head to https://liftshare.com/uk/community/dorset add your journey and find your match.

"It really is that easy. If you’re already a member but don’t have a liftshare group, you can log back into your account, review your matches and find someone new going your way."