Head-start for young Keith drivers

AN ENTHUSIASTIC group of Keith youngsters took the driver's seat during a Rrrrallye Youth Drive event recently.

A downpour failed to dampen spirits as the Rrrrallye team, in conjunction with Roadwise Driver Training instructors, demonstrated safe and considerate driving to youngsters aged between 14-17 on Sunday, May 26.

The Rrrrallye Youth Drive is held at Grampian Transport Museum in Alford, with each session lasting around three and a half hours. The youngsters are given the opportunity to get behind the wheel in stress-free surroundings to become familiar with the control and performance of a vehicle.

The event includes interactive discussion on driving theory, information and hands-on experience of vehicle maintenance, and a demonstration drive in and around Alford, focusing on road hazard awareness.

Youngsters do not require to have any knowledge of driving or car maintenance.

Rrrrallye Youth Drive's Linda Harper said: "As we are a rural area some of the youngsters might already be driving on private land – so we hope to help give them something to work on while they are out and hopefully tidy up some bad habits they have picked up."

Youngsters close to driving age can gain a real head-start from the sessions. By the time the day is out, the driving instructors will have helped the learners to start, move off and stop safely, and how to approach and exit a junction, stay in a lane, corner and much more besides.

Another Rrrrallye event will be held on Sunday, June 16, at Keith Community Centre. The Family Fun Day will run a "show and shine" for car enthusiasts and a variety of stalls. The local fire brigade will give a cutting demonstration. Roadwise instructors will also take drivers out for assessment and offer some constructive criticism where needed.

For more information e-mail Rrrrallye@live.co.uk.

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