TWO teenage drivers have just passed the Advanced Driving Test with flying colours.

Emily Bacon and Bailey Williams enrolled on the Advanced Course with the registered charity, Bolton & District Advanced Motorists.

Emily said “My boyfriend did the Advanced Test in 2017 and he said, after I passed my basic driving test, that he thought I’d enjoy the Advanced Course and benefit from it.

“He was right when he said I’d enjoy it. The lessons were structured so that everything I needed to learn was provided little by little and not in one huge lump. I wasn’t a nervous driver but I did find that my confidence increased and he said he noticed how much better my driving was.”

Bailey was always keen to learn to drive and was riding motor bikes before he was old enough to take his basic car driving test. He knew one of the IAM RoadSmart (formerly the Institute of Advanced Motorists) examiners who took him out in his car to show him what advanced driving was like.

After he passed the basic test he signed up to take the Advanced Test. He said: “When I took the basic test I learned how to drive a car safely but I was never shown any particular way to steer. Going into side roads I would be braking, changing gear and steering all at the same time and wouldn’t be able to react quickly if something unexpected happened. Since I have learned the Advanced way I never cross my hands or let the steering wheel spin back on its own. I know I am much more skilful in this and many more aspects of driving – and safer of course!“

Roy Sammons, chairman of the group, said “We are always pleased to see younger drivers on the course because, sadly, many come a cropper soon after taking their basic test. We also are extremely pleased when young drivers like Bailey and Emily’s boyfriend decide to train as observers with the group to help other people to prepare for the Advanced Test. We recently introduced a special offer for all under-30s to receive a 100 per cent cashback when they pass their Advanced Test – and this is so encouraging.”

Anyone wanting further information about advanced driving should contact Lynn Jordan on 07766 651418 or email boltoniam@gmail.com. Any driver can, without obligation, attend the Introductory Evening for the group’s next course. It will take place at the Lostock Parish Centre, Lostock, Bolton, BL6 4EL on Thursday, May 2. Tea and coffee at 7pm.