THE first drop in Severn Bridge tolls will save regular commuters nearly £300 a year.

The toll for cars driving into Wales dropped to £5.60 from £6.70 on New Year’s Day and is set to be scrapped completely from next year.

Commuters who use the crossings on each weekday would have spent £1,742 last year but that will drop to £1,456 in 2018, a saving of £286.

Heavy lorries and buses will pay £16.70 instead of £20 while the toll for vans and minibuses is reduced to £11.20 from £13.40.

“Lowering the price of the bridge tolls could provide a boost for the local economy, and it is also a huge win for drivers in the surrounding regions,” said Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com.

“The cost of motoring is on the up, with car insurance expected to be the most expensive on record in 2018, and fuel price increases week on week.

“But the toll cut is a positive step forward in making it more affordable for drivers.”