YOUNG drivers in the Borders have hit the ton.

And organisers of the Institute of Advanced Motorists scheme hope many more will follow in their tyre tracks.

Following the most recent round of graduates, over 100 17-to-25-year-olds in the region now have improved skills to help them become safer drivers.

A total of 13 young drivers from across the Borders negotiated the Institute of Advanced Motorists initiative in December, including Sarah Dagg of Newtown St Boswells and Jedburgh’s Elspeth McLachlan, who both achieved class one passes.

Amongst the others who passed were Nathan Dakin from Peebles, Cardrona's Caris Cummings and Chloe Scott from Galashiels.

Callum Stewart from Innerleithen also passed, as did Rebecca Kennedy from Earlston, Melrose pair Beth Patterson and Finn Turner, and Dean Moir of Galashiels.

Paul Richardson, SBC’s Community Safety Officer, told us: “The aim of the advanced driver course is to reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths involving young drivers on the region’s roads.

“Having more than 100 young people with improved driving skills can only help to achieving this goal.

“Former British Touring Car champion John Cleland supports the benefits of the scheme, which also offers potentially cheaper car insurance.

“There are plenty chances to sit the course during 2016, with details on the council’s website.”

The next courses begin in March 2016 with dates also available throughout the year.

The training usually costs £149 but is offered free in the Borders due to Council funding, one of the first local authorities in Scotland to offer such sponsorship.

To sign up on the advanced driver course visit www.iam.org.uk/skillforlife or phone on 0300 303 1137.

Further information is also available at www.scotborders.gov.uk/skillforlife.