With winter firmly upon us, many drivers are bracing themselves for the usual bout of motoring misery as treacherous conditions take hold on our roads and motorways.

Yet recent research from Post Office Car Insurance shows that car owners are cutting back on maintenance more than ever before.

With over a quarter even economising on safety measures, winter driving poses an increased threat for thousands of road users.

It is a situation that Carcraft Service Centres is tackling head on with the launch of its free Winter Safety Check.

"In the current financial climate, it's understandable that motorists are watching the pennies," said the company’s Service Manager Joe Conlin.

"However, when it comes to safety, it could be false economy - that's why we're offering a free Winter Safety Check, so drivers can be sure their car is road safe."

Taking just thirty minutes, the check covers essential areas such as brakes, tyres, exhausts, steering, windscreen, wiper blades, anti-freeze and screen wash.

"Whilst the check doesn’t take long, it's all the time our expert technicians need to highlight areas of concern," said Mr Conlin.

"It could make all the difference to a driver’s safety this Winter. If any motorist is worried, I’d say come in and get checked out for free."

Carcraft Service Centres offers nationwide servicing, MOTs and repairs, all carried out to dealership standard at less than fast-fit prices.

(PR/GK)