MOBILITY product specialist, TPG DisableAids, will be offering a free mobility scooter safe driving awareness day at its Hereford headquarters on May 22.

This event offers a relaxed and enjoyable opportunity to test drive a mobility scooter for the first time or improve driving skills on a specially designed course.

Being able to drive a scooter safely and with confidence is essential for independence with peace of mind.

Specialist advisors will be on hand to guide visitors around a test track that simulates obstacles that scooter drivers may face such as kerbs, road crossings and parked cars.

Relevant parts of the Highway Code will be explained so that owners gain greater knowledge when negotiating pedestrians and other road users.

Advice regarding manoeuvres such as reversing will also be demonstrated along with opportunity to test scooter suspension, steering, braking and controls.

For potential owners, this is vital for appropriate product selection as there are many different types available ranging from car boot designs to larger scooters. By physically test driving a scooter, visitors can assess suitability for their individual lifestyles and mobility needs. Existing owners who attend the event will gain a greater understanding of their product and personal driving capabilities. Everyone who completes the test track will receive a 'Safe Scoot' certificate and a free ice-cream.

Alastair Gibbs, TPG managing director comments: "We have always been advocates of road safety and continue a thorough programme of assessment when supplying mobility scooters. This ensures our customers receive the right product for their needs and have the knowledge to handle products with control. This is essential to maximise safety for both scooter users and other road users. Our latest safe driving day highlights TPG's ethos in a fun and free experience – offering vital awareness and product advice to a wider audience. This event is not a driving test, it is simply a relaxed test drive opportunity for locals to try a scooter in a safe and controlled place. We are delighted to be supported by the council and police who both share our commitment to road safety."

The free mobility scooter safe driving day will be held from11am - 3pm on May 22 at TPG DisableAids, Plough Lane, Hereford, HR4 0ED and will be supported by Hereford Council and West Mercia Police.