MOTORISTS young and old are being encouraged to attend courses to improve their driving.

The IAM RoadSmart advanced driver scheme has been set up for 17 to 25-year-olds, while over 65s are being invited to take part in refresher courses to brush up their skills.

Both have been set up by Drivewise Borders, which aims to help people of all ages become safer on the road.

The free IAM Road Smart scheme has helped more than 100 youngsters since it began in 2014 and 99 per cent of those who have taken part say it has improved their driving.

The older drivers scheme allows over 65s to book a 60 to 90 minute practical driving session with an instructor, which is not a test of skills and knowledge but an opportunity to increase confidence and practise any areas that may need updating.

The advanced driver sessions are taking place throughout August to April. To sign up, visit: http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/skillsforlife

The older drivers scheme is taking place around the region on the following dates: 

  • Walkerburn Public Hall - August 16, 9.30am
  • Innerleithen Memorial Hall - August 16, 1.30pm
  • St Boswells Village Hall - August 30, 9.30am
  • Newtown St Boswells Community Wing - August 30, 1.30pm
  • West Linton Graham Institute - September 13, 9.30am
  • Melrose Corn Exchange - September 13, 1.30pm
  • Tweedbank Eildon Mill - October 11, 9.30am
  • Duns Southfield Community Centre - October 18, 10am

There is no need to book up in advance, but further details are available from http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/olderdriver.

Chief Inspector Andy McLean, area commander for the Scottish Borders, said: “Drivewise Borders is a fantastic opportunity for members of our community to gain additional, potentially life-saving driving skills for free. We would encourage all who are eligible to take up this unique opportunity.”

Councillor Watson McAteer, SBC’s chairman of the police, fire and safer communities board, added: “The council is delighted to be involved in Drivewise Borders and will continue to work with partners to engage with various road user groups of all ages to improve the quality and standard of driving on local roads.”