DRIVERS in south west Hertfordshire are being urged to think about clever commuting and car sharing.

This week is Hertfordshire County Council's TravelWise Week, which aims to get drivers to think about alternatives to travelling alone in the car on the daily journey to work.

Car-sharing can save on stress and money, reduce the number of cars on the road and cut pollution.

Stuart Pile, the county council's executive member for Transport and Environment, said: "We want to let Watford residents know that commuting by car isn't the only option. Travelling by public transport, or setting up a car sharing scheme at work, are great alternatives to the car. If you're only travelling a short distance, walking and cycling are other ways of being a clever commuter.

"Travelling to work by car every day doesn't just hit the pocket, it has environmental costs too. Cars give out lots of pollutants such as carbon monoxide, lead compounds and benzene, which are harmful to the environment and the people living in it."Some car-sharing tips: Establish morning pick-up points and designated places to meet for the trip home.

Be punctual and decide how long the driver should wait for the passenger.

If you and your car-share buddy don't share the driving equally, agree on how the costs will be shared.

Discuss potential irritants such as smoking, eating or loud music, so that ground rules can be established.

Always make sure you know who you are travelling with, meet in a public place and don't give your address to someone you haven't met before For further information about the TravelWise campaign, see www.hertsdirect.org/travelwise.