A NEW "approved garage scheme" is now up and running in York.

The Approved Garage Scheme (AGS) is backed by council Trading Standards officers who will advise and help raise standards at the car dealerships, service and repair workshops which sign up.

Garages must meet certain criteria to get AGS membership, and be ready for checks and audits and for Trading Standards officers to investigate any complaints.

John Lamb, Director at Osbaldwick Motors, said: “I think this scheme will give people more confidence in dealing with garages and instil more trust in the businesses. We’ve joined because we hope it’ll help grow the business and support all the good work in garages that’s going on in York.”

The council's Cllr Nigel Ayre said the AGS would give people extra reassurance about who they entrust their cars to.

To find an AGS approved garage, visit approvedgaragescheme.com to find the type of garage service required, plus any special offers.

Garages interested in joining the scheme are invited to call 01904 551525 or email public.protection@york.gov.uk

Pictured above are: Melanie Milner of Leeman Road Auto Services, Peter Gough of Fulford Auto Services, Dawn Clarkson from City of York Council, Andrew and Rebecca Steele of Copmanthorpe Motors, Cllr Nigel Ayre, Paul Weatherall from City of York Council, John Lamb of Osbaldwick Motors, Mike Southcombe from City of York Council and Darren Bailey of Westmoor Cars.