City of York Council is making it even easier for customers to pay their bills, as part of its More for York efficiency and improvement work.

From the 12 February, most billed items, including council tax and business rates, can be paid at any of the 103 citywide Post Offices, shops and garages displaying a PayPoint logo free of charge.

All council tax and business ratepayers who currently pay by cash or cheque are being sent their own, personal payment card. Customers simply take the card to a PayPoint outlet where their card will be swiped and payment can be made by cash, or at a Post Office where they can also pay by cheque or debit card.

Alternatively, council tax and business rates can be paid by Direct Debit. Residents can also pay their council tax and business rates over the phone using a debit or credit card. Simply call 01904 551558 to make a payment or set up  a Direct Debit.

Council tax and any other billed items can also be paid via the internet at www.york.gov.uk/payments

Tracey Carter, director of the More for York programme, said: "City of York Council is working hard to deliver more convenient ways for our customers to pay and provide more choice on how to pay. This is one step on the road to improving customer services and enhancing efficiency at the council."

Sarah Clelland from allpay Limited, the card providers, commented: 'Using the payment card is so easy and convenient - we're convinced that people in York will really benefit from this new way to pay!"