Think you need to be 17 to drive a car? Think again

Under 17s who can’t wait to get behind the wheel of a car can try their hand at skid control, manoeuvring, and braking and avoidance techniques at a driving event organised by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) on 21 and 22 May in Berwickshire, Scottish Borders.

And someone who knows a thing or two about precision driving, twice former British Touring Car Champion John Cleland, has given the young driving day his seal of approval.

The event is open to young drivers age 14 and over. It offers them the chance to take the wheel in an off-road environment for a series of driving challenges.

This event takes place at Charterhall Airport, Berwickshire, Scottish Borders. Starting off with the essentials, over the day young drivers will also have the opportunity to try numerous skill sessions including how to handle skids, manoeuvring techniques and braking/avoiding.

John, who won the British Touring Car Championship for Vauxhall in 1989 and 1995, said: “Driving can be really enjoyable but sadly in the daily grind we often lose that joy. Letting young people who haven’t passed their test yet get behind the wheel is the ultimate demonstration of how fun it can be. And like most skills, driving is best and most easily learned early.

“Experience is the key challenge for new drivers, so it really is a case of the sooner the better when it comes to learning. It’s a well reported fact that young drivers are overrepresented in the accident stats but events like this make all the difference in terms of getting the right attitudes, skills and behaviours in place before drivers are left to fend for themselves on the open road.”

This event is also being supported by Police Scotland, Scottish Borders Council, John Cleland and Charterhall Estates.

There are just 40 places available for this event on 21 and 22 May, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To book call 0300 303 1134.

ENDS