A DRIVING instructor who has captured a string of shocking videos from his dashboard camera says motoring standards in Bolton have markedly declined.

Tony Pearson has been teaching learner drivers for the past 25 years but says the roads are becoming ‘lawless’ due to a lack of police.

“It’s very much declined. It’s got a lot worse,” said Mr Pearson, 60.

“There is a lack of police presence. The roads are becoming lawless. There is no deterrent anymore.

“You just don’t see the police presence that you used to, or the quantity of police motorbikes that used to patrol the roads.”

Tony identifies a catalogue of dangerous driving incidents he witnesses on a day to day basis.

He’s seen an increase in undertaking, jumping red lights, inconsiderate driving and poor manners on the roads around the town.

Mr Pearson said a lack of patience from other road users also means learners are subjected to verbal abuse and threatening behaviour.

“You see speeding and people not paying attention. Not adhering to the rules of the road, going through red lights,” said Mr Pearson, of Farnworth, who is chairman of the Association of United Driving Instructors, which represents instructors from Bolton and Bury.

He added: “The abuse is getting a lot worse. Bullying on the roads is unbelievable. Leaner drivers are beeped at; shouted at. Other drivers just don’t have any patience.

“If a plain clothes police officer sat with me for an hour he’d be able to fill his book with offences.”

Greater Manchester Police declined to comment on the issue.

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