Driving course refresher set up for over-60s

Fran Whymark admitted that the nature of his driving had changed over 40 years

A new initiative to help older drivers stay on the road and increase their confidence has been introduced.

The Gold course by Norfolk County Council is designed for motorists over the age of 60 and lasts about 60 minutes.

The local authority's road safety team collaborated with Norfolk Police, the local fire service and ambulance service.

Fran Whymark, Conservative cabinet member for public health, said: "It's not about losing people's licence; it's about keeping people on the road and keeping them safe."

Drivers signed up to the course take the test in their own vehicle and council road safety officer Andrew Sykes said it enabled the assessor to give an objective view on their driving.

"It's really not a driving test by any means - it's just an observed drive with a few hints and tips along the way," said Mr Sykes.

Andrew Sykes says the assessment includes observing stopping distance, observations at junctions and clear signalling

Whymark took the course himself and admitted his driving had changed since passing his test 40 years ago.

"I'm a bit older so your eyesight deteriorates, your mobility deteriorates... it's about keeping yourself safe and keeping yourself on the road.

"Most people just need to tidy up a few items when they are driving."

Rebecca Guy, from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents charity, pointed out there was other support and training available for veteran drivers.

Motorists aged over 70 have to renew their driving licence every three years with the DVLA.

Two coroners have recently recommended that the licensing system is tightened up following fatal accidents caused by older drivers.

HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire Dr James Adeley pointed out the UK was one of only three countries to rely upon self-reporting of visual conditions affecting driving.

Meanwhile, assistant coroner for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Beth Brown said older drivers with "compromised" ability may cause further deaths.