Name: Terry Maultsaid        

Occupation: Happily retired 

Interests/hobbies: Golf, Rotary and Chairing S.A.M.   

How long driving: Nearly five decades 

How long an Advanced Driver: 10 years 

Current level: National Observer  

Why I took the course:    Enjoying my driving less over time, I wanted to recapture some of the enthusiasm from earlier days.  More traffic on our roads and the less tolerant, more aggressive behaviour of some road users made me aware that defensive driving and more concentration was required to stay safe.  Whilst being sometimes critical of others I knew my own standards had slipped and bad habits had gradually crept in. 

What’s next:   Having opened a new chapter in the enjoyment of my driving, I wanted to give something back and thought becoming an Observer would help me do that as well as maintain the new level I had reached.  Since then I became Chair of the Group in 2014. Being part of the Training Team and helping others become Observers is my next goal. 

What car I drive now and what I think of it:     BMW 428i convertible.  Having waited three months for the colour combination of Estoril Blue with Oyster leather, I took delivery last October.  It is my first automatic in many years and so packed with “infotainment” that I am still learning some of the technical bits.  Meantime I just love its quiet efficiency – much like the skills of an Advanced Driver! 

Favourite car:    The one I’m driving! 

Most annoying bad driving example:   Undertaking, especially when there is no attempt to wait patiently behind you – in the same lane – while you safely complete an overtake.