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Young driver sets a good example
1:25pm Thursday 4th September 2008
By Mark Bowen »
EIGHTEEN-year-old Elizabeth Johnson is in no doubt about the mindset of some newly-qualified drivers.
“I think some replace their eyes and ears with a pink card once they have passed,” she says.
“A lot of people my age have already had accidents through speeding or not concentrating.”
The Hereford Sixth Form College student is determined not to be dragged into the bad habits newly-qualified drivers can develop in their first months behind the wheel.
She has just completed a Skill for Life course run by Herefordshire Advanced Motorists, one of 200 groups throughout the UK which promotes the aims of the Institute of Advanced Motorists.
And Elizabeth, who lives in Kingstone and passed her test first time, says the course is good preparation for life on the road.
“It highlights anticipation and concentration, and teaches you to deal with inconsistent road types,” she explained.
“I wanted to do the course because I’m aware of others my age who have already crashed because of careless driving and I don’t want that to be me.
“I was the youngest in the group, with most others being middle-aged, but I would definitely encourage youngsters who have recently passed their test to give it a try.”
Held in Hereford four times a year, the course features theory lessons and small tests before finishing with a practical test.
“The whole reason for the course is to raise the standard of road safety,” said Mary Bevan, who chairs Herefordshire Advanced Motorists.
“When people acquire these skills their road safety improves and they enjoy driving more.”
All ages are allowed to apply providing they have a full driving licence.
New drivers can enrol after three months. The cost is £99 for those 26 and over and £79 for under-26s.
Herefordshire Advanced Motorists is also in the process of forming a Young Drivers Group specialising in 17 to 30-year-olds.
It will include three free sessions – two classroom and one practical – and will be launched next February.
For further information on the Skill for Life course or the Young Drivers Group, contact Mrs Bevan on 01874 712267 or marybevan @dsl.pipex.com
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In the driving seat: Elizabeth Johnson. 083523-1. Picture by Ray Lloyd.
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