NEW rules allowing councillors to claim expenses if they use a push-scooter or a skateboard to reach meetings have been dismissed as a "belated April Fool's joke".

The change in Government policy means cycling, scooting or skating council members can recoup the cost of wear-and-tear to their vehicle of choice.

It is designed to encourage more councillors to get on their bike, scooter, or skateboard.

Worcester City Council leader Stephen Inman thought the Government was pulling the council's leg.

"We're all very keen to protect the environment and we believe that people should have a choice in going from A to B," he said.

"But to claim mileage allowances for the wear-and-tear of your skateboard is just a belated April Fool's joke."

However, Coun Paul Denham - who flew through the city on his scooter to reach a meeting at the Guildhall yesterday - said councillors should lead the way in encouraging people to abandon their cars.

"It's a good idea for councillors to set a good example by not using their cars when it is not really necessary," he said.

"But I don't think many councillors would bother claiming for wear-and-tear on their bike or scooter."

Councillors will be able to claim allowances for the use of "non-motorised" forms of transport, as well as those who drive, or catch the bus or train, from May 1.

A spokeswoman for Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott's office said the new rules were part of a wider shake-up designed to loosen Whitehall's grip on local authorities, which includes plans to allow them to set their own level of expenses.

"If a councillor uses a skateboard or a scooter to get to meetings, and they are claiming wear and tear, they will be included in the allowance scheme," she said.

"This is designed to reflect the world we now live in and the fact that more people now cycle, or use other less traditional forms of transport."

The changes will also allow parish councils, fire authorities and conservation boards of areas of outstanding natural beauty to pay member allowances.