3000 improved drivers in Shropshire

On 5-6 June, Shropshire County Council ran its 200th National Driver Improvement Course.

The scheme is operated by the county’s road safety section and comprises a one and a half day training course to drivers that have been involved in ‘driving without due care’ incidents. Clients are referred predominantly by West Mercia Constabulary but other police forces also make referrels.

The scheme is an example of a local authority working in partnership with the police and other professional driver trainers in order to address safety issues and meet casualty reduction targets.

Over 3000 drivers have now benefited from the course - the 3000th was Mr Paul Jeffries, who said: "The course was very enjoyable and has given me a good insight into being a safer driver. I didn’t realise that I had picked up so many bad habits."

Eileen Taylor, the course manager added: "Since courses commenced in 1996 we have received positive feedback from clients who often comment that all drivers should attend a similar course at regular intervals. Prosecution results in a fine, points on a licence and often annoyance to the driver. Education is therefore a much better option."