A CAR club has been launched to help people find a cheaper way of getting around.

Horsham Co-Wheels, a scheme funded by West Sussex County Council, is offering residents and traders the chance to drive without the cost and hassle of owning a car.

The project has 29 members so far who can hire one of two brand new cars, a Toyota Yaris parked in Brighton Road, or a Toyota Aygo parked in North Street, near Horsham Station.

Prices start at £3.75 per hour, plus a 13p mileage rate – with special rates for overnight or 24-hour hire.

The prices cover fuel costs and comprehensive insurance, so it is said that anyone who drives less than 8,000 miles a year will save money.

A third car will join the fleet early next year and will be parked in Bishopric.

Horsham teacher Robert Mayfield said he was saving £60 per month by using the cars for family visits and medical appointments.

He said: “I needed to sell my car, and it seemed to be a cost effective way of getting around, rather than relying on public transport.

“I am now no longer responsible for a car that in the end sits out in the street, costing me in the region of a thousand pounds a year, which is a good start.

“At the moment the Co-Wheels car is used on the basis of as and when.

“The bank balance is feeling the effect.”

The social enterprise reinvests any money made back into the schemes to allow cars to be replaced every three to five years and more cars to be made available if there is enough demand.

The launch of the scheme was made possible with funding from the Department for Transport to support sustainable transport.

Pieter Montyn, council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “Horsham Co-Wheels is part of a wider package of measures which have been introduced to promote sustainable travel in the town. It supports economic growth and reduces carbon emissions.

“Car clubs provide a cheaper, greener and more convenient alternative to owning a car and we want more people to use the scheme so it can continue to expand.”

For more information visit co-wheels.org.uk