COUNCIL tax payers across Dorset are being urged to embrace e-billing, as part of an environmentally-friendly scheme to reduce costs – and they could be in with a chance of scooping a grand prize.

If residents in Purbeck and west Dorset sign up to the scheme before the end of the month (June 30), they could have the chance of scooping a £1,000 reward.

The campaign – a joint initiative between Purbeck District Council (PDC), West Dorset District Council and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council – will save more than 50p in postage and administration costs for every person who signs up.

So far more than 3,000 residents have signed up but the councils say the more, the better.

Stuart Dawson, head of revenues and benefits for Purbeck, West Dorset and Weymouth and Portland Councils, said: “E-billing is easy, better for the environment and reduces costs, which also helps to protect local council services.

“I would like to thank everyone who has done their bit and signed up so far. To date more than 3,000 have signed up for e-billing and this will help deliver significant year-on-year savings.”

Initially district officials had considered offering people who agreed to use online services a discount, which is now common practice for utility companies.

However, a district council spokesman explained this kind of scheme would have meant those unable to use online services would face higher bills. People who are not online are often on the tightest budgets.

Mr Dawson confirmed: “You could win £1,000 if you sign up by June 30 to get your future council tax bills by email.

“Signing up takes seconds.”

Residents from Christchurch, East Dorset and North Dorset are still encouraged to sign-up for e-billing, but they are not eligible for the prize draw.

You will need your council tax reference number to complete the sign-up form which can be found on your council tax bill.

If you cannot find it, contact the billing helpline on 01305 211970.

Visit dorsetforyou.com/counciltax/e-billing to get started.