About us

The Group originated from the Severn Vale Motorists, but under the initiative of Anthony Whitehouse was registered with the IAM as the Gloucestershire Group of Advanced Motorists in 1974.

We’re here to help local drivers get more enjoyment out of being on the road. Our experts help drivers of all ages and abilities to learn new skills, develop existing ones and have fun behind the wheel. 

The Group covers the Cheltenham and Gloucester area, the Forest of Dean and the Central and North Cotswold areas of the county excluding the Cirencester area which is administered by  the Cirencester Group.

We facilitate the work of IAM RoadSmart by offering one-to-one training for the IAM Advanced Driving course.  We also offer taster drives to the public and a quarterly ‘Introduction to Advanced Driving’  1-day seminar that is free for any driver to attend. Our Observers are also keen to help refresh members skills.

The Group has over 120 members at present. Full Membership is open to IAM RoadSmart Members and Associates, but if you have an interest in cars and driving then you can join us as a ‘Friend’.  We hold 6 Group meetings a year.  We usually have a speaker on driving or motoring subjects at our meetings and there is always time for networking too.

Our aim is to help improve driving standards in our area and promote road safety by education.  We enjoy links with our neighbouring car and motorbike groups, Gloucestershire Road Safety and the Under 17 Car Club.  We exhibit at as many local Motor Shows and Road Safety events as possible.  In the last 5 years we have been fortunate in receiving funding from our Police and Crime Commissioner to support up to 20 young drivers to undertake the Advanced Driving Course and our focus is to attract all young drivers to improve and consolidate their driving skills.  IAM membership is for all age groups. In 2023 we obtained follow on funding from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue to enable us to continue our Young Driver Programme.  Contact us to find out how we can help you.

With effect from 24th July 2022 we are returning to the Churchdown Community Centre as our base.

Churchdown Communiuty Centre, Parton Road, Churchdown GL3 2JH.