THE ADVANCED DRIVING COURSE.

In August 2024, I was caught for speeding in Scotland Road, Liverpool, doing 36 mph in a 30 mph zone. Following this error, I attended a 'Speed Awareness Course and quickly realised that I wanted to improve my driving skills... things had changed since I passed my driving test some 73 years earlier.

Going online, I joined the IAM RoadSmart Advanced Driver Course provided by the St. Helens Group. ., where I hoped to meet highly qualified drivers, willing to pass on their skills and experiences.

Attending the 1^st meeting on the 9^th January 2025, the Chairman, Mr Mark Farnworth, explained the different aspects we would be taught during the next 12 weeks of the course, and that the procedures were based on Police standards.

I was given so much information at this time, that my 1^st thought was...”I'm DOOMED !!”

Fortunately, the session ended with an 'Observer' taking me for an assessment drive in my car, and Jeff Fishwick judged me to be a 'good driver', but in need of help and advice.

I have attended 10 of the 12 week course, and have got to say that “My decision

to partake in this Advanced Driving Course has been one of the most Important ones in my life”. My knowledge and awareness, timing, positioning etc have improved dramatically. All types of roads, limit points, overtaking, mirror checks etc, etc. The improvement in my driving skills has changed beyond recognition and it has become a reality because of the dedication and kindness given to me by the Observers.

There are no words that can be uttered to express my appreciation of what they have achieved for me.

Yours forever grateful.

Peter Bellis