A NEW approved garage scheme has been launched in York.

It has been backed by 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 Approved Garage Scheme 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.

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