Southampton motorists could be paying over the odds on parts for their cars, a survey has revealed.

Research by garage chain HiQ shows the average driver in the city spent £89.40 on new tyres, compared to a national average of £81.86.

And as the Daily Echo continues with the Don’t be a Fuel Fool Campaign, looking at ways around the rising cost of fuel, it has also been revealed that car users in the city hold garages and tyre fitters in low regard.

Properly inflated tyres with the correct tread are essential for both fuel efficiency and safety – yet 70 per cent of motorists in Southampton said buying a tyre was not always the honest or trustworthy experience it should be.

HiQs marketing manager Geraldine McGovern said: “The results of this research into our own industry surprised us. We need to rebuild trust and make sure drivers believe we both know what we’re talking about and that we’re giving them the best possible advice.

“We need to radically change the whole experience of buying a tyre, so that it feels as trustworthy and pleasant as shopping on the high street.”