Coun Ian Chilvers normally has the option of travelling in a hire car for civic events, but Selby District Council now wants him to use his own transport more regularly and claim the costs back on expenses.

The move comes after a review by authority chiefs to drive down expenditure in the wake of the credit crunch.

But Coun Chilvers (pictured) – a former Selby Times reporter – was mystified by the news.

He said: "At the moment, I use my own car to travel to functions in Selby district, and outside the area I can, if I require it, use the civic vehicle. In fact, I will be using it later this month."

SDC sets aside a budget of about £3,500 for a private hire civic vehicle, usually a Mercedes or a Volvo.

A spokesman said there will be "fewer occasions" when the car was needed because the chairman's role was evolving.

Currently, the chairman takes an ambassadorial role, representing the authority at various civic functions across North Yorkshire. He also raises funds for his three chosen charities.

The spokesman added: "The chairman already uses his or her own car on some occasions. We would expect this to be the norm rather than the exception in future.

"This is part of a general review on how we operate, with the aim of ensuring SDC is in the best possible shape to meet the future needs of residents."

Coun Chilvers also denied rumours the annual civic dinner at Carlton Towers would be scrapped as part of the cost cutting measures. (L2311TS) Picture: Tony Saxton