A new car sharing service has opened.

Co Wheels Car Club has launched in Eastbourne to offer an "eco-friendly alternative to traditional car ownership".

The club, in Hyde Gardens, allows people to hire cars for hourly or daily use and it is hoped it will help reduce emissions across the town as there will be less need for residents to have their own car.

READ MORE: More homes needed for Ukrainian families fleeing war

Councillor Jim Murray, Eastbourne cabinet member for climate change, said: "I am delighted Co Wheels Car Club has come to Eastbourne. Car sharing is a great way of reducing carbon emissions and helping us to realise our 2030 net zero ambition for the town.

"It brings the opportunity to reduce car ownership and improve air quality."

Founded in 2008, the club has more than 600 vehicles nationwide.

The Eastbourne fleet includes a zero-emission electric MG4 car and a fuel-efficient petrol MG3.

People need to set up an account on Co Wheels, choose one of its cars from a location and book it for a time and date. They can then use it and will be charged for its mileage after use.

More information on how it works can be found at https://www.co-wheels.org.uk/eastbourne.

Richard Falconer, head of locations and business development at Co Wheels, said: "By offering a choice of a fuel-efficient and a fully electric vehicle we are proud to be meeting the needs of the community by offering a convenient and sustainable alternative to traditional car ownership.

"Car share clubs such as Co Wheels reduce the number of vehicles on the road, contributing to lower carbon emissions and greener, safer cities.

"The majority of vehicles in the UK spend over 97 per cent of the time unused. Car mobility services are perfect for those who do not need regular access to a vehicle or who only need a second vehicle on occasion."