DAVID Smith is helping to lead the way to eco-friendliness among Hyndburn taxi drivers.

For David of Oswaldtwistle, who drives from Accrington Taxis, has just converted his Vauxhall Vectra to LPG - the environmentally friendly auto gas.

He was aided by the Business Environment Association who awarded self-employed driver David a grant towards the cost of converting his car from running on petrol to LPG.

David said: "My fuel costs are down by about half, plus I feel I'm doing my bit towards helping the environment."

"There seems no noticeable loss of car performance, which was an early worry, and with LPG becoming quite widely available I can't see any downside to the conversion."

Two of David's colleagues have also converted their cars, with others considering the option.

He said: "They are sitting on the fence until they see how I get on. But so far I can only say it has been a sensible move and would recommend it to them, particularly as a grant towards the conversion cost is available."

The money comes the BEA's energy efficiency fund for Hyndburn which helps self- employed and businesses in the area. Other local businesspeople can speak to the Green Desk free helpline 01254 669024, operated by the BEA with the support of Business Link.