Tony is one of the first new Advanced Riders to qualify since lockdown was lifted, says IAM RoadSmart

Posted on 07/07/20 |
As Advanced Rider tests got underway again this week for the first time since March, one of the first to qualify after the COVID-19 lockdown is Tony Nares from Ilminster, Somerset. 

A member of Somerset Advanced Motorcyclists (SAM), his test was conducted by volunteer examiner, Peter Herridge. 

Tony’s success is also a first for new group chair, Lisa Parsons, who was recently elected to the role. 

Recommended by a friend to take his Advanced Rider course, Tony is delighted to have passed. 

He said: “I’ve been riding a bike for a long time. Biking is about fun and riding out with like-minded people who also care about road safety. A motorcycle can be a lethal machine. You have to be aware of your own safety and that of other road users. 

“I feel much more confident in my riding having taken the course and I also enjoy it a lot more. I feel I’m safer because I’m more aware of how to manage the risks we all face day to day on the roads.”

Tony hopes to continue his IAM RoadSmart journey by qualifying to become an observer. If successful, he would join the thousands of volunteers nationwide who, through the coaching they provide, contribute towards the UK’s largest independent road safety charity’s mission, to reduce the number of people who are killed or injured on the roads. 

Tony added: “I am grateful to all those who have shared their skills with me and provided feedback on my riding. The expertise they have shared has been invaluable and has helped me to success in my test.”

Commenting on Tony’s achievement, Peter said: “I’m delighted to welcome another member to IAM RoadSmart. Tony has been very honest with us. He has been riding a long time. Over time bad habits creep in and we can all become complacent about the risks. It’s so important that we are always as engaged as possible in our riding.”

Lisa said: “We’re delighted Tony has put us on the map nationwide as one of the first post-lockdown Advanced Rider test passes. 

“We are always keen to welcome new members, particularly younger riders. We have a bursary scheme for those under 30 which enables people to recover the full cost of the course, if they pass their test. 

“Young riders are such a vulnerable group and we’re committed to providing them with affordable ways to gain valuable additional skills that could save their life one day.” 

Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart’s Head of Driver and Rider Standards, said: “We all extend our congratulations to Tony for becoming an Advanced Rider.

“With group activity and observed rides now possible nationwide, subject to local lockdown restrictions, there’s never been a better time to start the journey to becoming a better rider.”

Advanced driver and rider coaching can help reduce vehicle, fuel and insurance costs, improve road safety, boost confidence and reduce travel stress. 

For those who would like a refresher as they return to the car or bike after an extended period off the road, driver and rider assessments are also available for members and non-members. Visit our courses page for more information. 

ENDS

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