Follow these tips, provided by the Government-backed green fleet award scheme Motorvate, and you'll not only cut your fuel costs but also help reduce the harmful emissions produced by your car.

* Plan your journeys - to avoid congestion, roadworks and getting lost. The Evening Press and local radio stations will give you up-to-date news on local travel black spots.

* Drive off quickly when starting from cold - idling to heat the engine wastes fuel and causes rapid engine wear.

* Drive defensively - avoid harsh acceleration and heavy breaking wherever possible. Remember that pulling away too fast uses up to 60 per cent more fuel.

* Don't pump the accelerator or rev the engine unnecessarily - this simply wastes fuel.

* Use the gearbox efficiently - changing gear between 1500 and 2000 rpm can reduce fuel consumption by 15 per cent.

* Stick to speed limits and make your fuel go further - driving at 70mph uses up 30 per cent more fuel than at 50mph.

* Check your tyre pressure regularly - under-inflated tyres wear out more quickly and can increase fuel consumption by up to three per cent.

* Avoid short journeys - a cold engine uses almost twice as much fuel while catalytic converters can take five miles to become effective.

* If you're stuck in a jam, switch off - turning off the engine for just a couple of minutes will save fuel and cut emissions.

* Concentrate - look ahead, anticipate road conditions and the actions of others. You'll be less likely to have an accident and will reduce fuel consumption.

The Motorvate Scheme is designed to help organisations cut fleet fuel costs and reduce the environmental impact of their transport operations.

By joining this scheme, organisations will be rewarded for running an efficient, cost effective and environmentally responsible fleet.