SURREY County Council has signed off plans to hire vehicles to help provide essential services for vulnerable people and save almost £50,000.

Approval has been given for one-year contracts to be signed by three leasing companies that represent a £48,000 saving on the previous deal.

Denise Le Gal, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet member for business services, said:

“We’re determined to strike the very best deals for us and local taxpayers.“At a time when rising demand for services is putting our finances under severe strain, these contracts will ensure vulnerable adults and children continue to get the best support possible and we provide maximum value for money.”