Despite early criticism of the UK vehicle scrappage subsidy scheme, consumers are showing an appetite for the offer with around 60,000 car buyers taking the deal in its first month of operation, according to official figures. No further information has been released about the vehicles being selected, but it’s t hought that greener, more economical models are being favoured by consumers.

As we get into the holiday season, the RAC and parent company Aviva report this week that driving abroad without appropriate breakdown a nd insurance protection can be a very costly experience; sage advice indeed. Figures from the two companies show that the cost of breaking down can run in to the thousands of pounds; throw in an accident with a personal injury claim and the damage to your wallet is likely to be greater than the value of your car.