BURY Driving Test Centre opened its doors today in a bid to make prospective drivers more relaxed about the new test.

And guests of honour at the test centre in Smith Street was local MP David Chaytor and Bury's Mayor, Cllr Roy Walker.

Senior driving examiner Peter Whalley, along with several colleagues, was available to answer questions about the new test and there were also videos and a CD-ROM on display.

Information was also available on the Driving Standards Agency's Pass Plus Scheme and the new law which places new drivers on "probation" for the first two years after passing their tests.

Visitors also met officers from the local traffic police and Bury's Road Safety Officer, as well as staff from the local Highways Department.

Mr Whalley said: "The aim of the open day is to dispel some of the myths about the test.

"Seeing that driving examiners do not have horns, but in fact are normal friendly people, should help candidates feel more relaxed when they come for their test."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.