Take advanced test to become a better driver (From Worcester News)

Take advanced test to become a better driver

11:51am Thursday 22nd March 2007 in Search By Lauren Murray

YOUNG drivers are being encouraged to hone their skills and be come the best - and safest - drivers they can.

The Worcestershire Group of Advanced Motoring is run by dedicated volunteers who believe taking an advanced test is the best thing any driver, young or old, can do to make themselves safer behind the wheel.

That is why they are urging drivers aged between 18 and 25 to enroll on their advanced driving course.

Organiser Tony Watt became involved after he was in a head-on collision in which three teenagers died. "I knew then that if I could do something, I should," he said.

"People pass their test and they are full of confidence - too much confidence and we've seen the effect that can have. In the past year or two there seem to have been so many terrible accidents on Worcestershire's roads."

The advanced driving course teaches pupils to drive to a police standard. According to advanced driving instructor Peter Cadogan it is about raising the level of awareness.

"Many drivers just learn how to control a car, read road signs," he said. "Basically, how to pass the test. The advanced course takes that further and makes sure you are in the right place, the right gear, that you know what is up ahead and behind you.

"It's about being aware and able to react."

One driver was so impressed with the course that he joined the group. Richard Ley now encourages others to do the same.

The 25-year-old, who passed his test six years ago, said: "It definitely made me slow down.

"You can never tell when things are going to happen - a football coming out on to the road with a child running after it - but now I know how to react.

"I'm so much more aware of what is around me."

The group also runs a Young Drivers Scheme. One Sunday every month more than 200 15 and 16-year-olds attend the scheme run at County Hall in Spetchley, Worcester.

They are taught how to control a car, even though they won't be old enough to drive on the roads for at least another year.

"They learn all the basic skills so that when they reach 17, and come to take their lessons, they are not nervous," said Mr Cadogan. "They learn how to drive but without the pressure of being on a public road."

To find out more about the advanced course for young drivers scheme contact Mr Watt on 07092350985 or e-mail worcsyds@ hotmail.com