“Having now passed my advanced rider test I can now recognise how much my riding ability has improved. My Observer, John Presland was very knowledgeable, patient, and supportive.”
From: John

"I had my review with Simon Lord, he was a very professional person with lots of knowledge and very easy to get on with, the whole drive with him and his comments were very good. I will be back again for another review just before my driving licence renewal in 2026."
From: Phil

“Your Assessor, Jim Henderson, proved extremely professional and was able to put me at ease immediately. In his final assessment, he realised I had completed advanced driving courses albeit some 25 + ago.”
From: Stephen

"I must praise the assessor, Mr. Michael ADDIS. I was so nervous at first, but he was able to put me at ease. He picked out my weak points and gave me many tips to improve my driving. I’m very grateful to him. Because I haven’t had an accident in many years, I’ve convinced myself that I’m a good driver, but now realise that I must improve, especially in certain aspects that were very considerately pointed out."
From: Mary

“The whole experience from my very first observed ride to the day of my test, was interesting, fun, and challenging. Mike, Adam and Martin are all dedicated individuals with a passion for safety and helping people to improve their skill set.”
From: Errol

“After initial doubt, my experience was rewarding accompanied by Mr Doug Milner. His expertise is, of course, first class. Thank you.”
From: Dorothy

“Doing the Advanced Rider Course with South Lancashire Advanced Motorcyclists (SLAM) has been one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences I have had on a motorcycle since I started riding, over 30 years ago. I have enjoyed the course, and I would highly recommend this to anybody who wishes to improve their ability to ride safely and competently.”
From: Andrew

"My examiner, Brian Sharman, is very experienced and knowledgeable and outlined some quite in-depth observations beyond the obvious."
From: Robert

"To receive the F1RST pass from Tony was an incredibly rewarding feeling! I remain indebted to Nick, my Observer, for his dedication in helping me improve my standards over these past 7 months. I hope now to progress riding for the local Blood Bike group (Freewheelers) and may consider becoming an Observer once I know what is involved."
From: Nick

"The assessor was extremely pleasant and there was no feeling of pressure, or apprehension, in fact overall I enjoyed the experience. I would absolutely advise mature drivers to take this test, I feel it is thoroughly worth taking and an added safety experience."
From: Barbara

“I thoroughly enjoyed my hour driving with Dave Irvine. His comments were helpful, and I have taken them to heart.”
From: Donald

“My assessor Mr Larner was highly professional. I have found his observations on my driving - which does need improvement - very helpful.”
From: John

“My assessor, Mr Guy Thompson was very considerate, and I didn't feel under pressure and could relax. He also gave me helpful feedback afterwards.”
From: Mildred

“Carl Adams was everything I could ask for in an assessor: warm, friendly, and at pains to put me at ease, while being thoroughly professional. His feedback was clear, well-timed, and easy to grasp. He made the assessment a very enjoyable experience and I learned a lot in our session."
From: Charlotte

“Eamonn was a very reassuring passenger but, at the same time, he did not miss a thing."
From: Ian

“Ian was very helpful and gave excellent guidance on ways to improve my driving.”
From: John

“Trevor Pile was superb!”
From: Michael

"The experience was brilliant because my examiner (Colin Gray) was so pleasant and professional in every respect, and it never felt like a test. I was surprised I enjoyed it and no, I wasn't perfect, but welcomed the hints he gave.”
From: Rachel

“I have found my experience with the Sefton IAM very rewarding. The entire processes through induction and going out with the different observers expedited my learning journey. I was made to feel very welcome. I would thoroughly recommend the IAM to make yourself a safer and better rider / driver. Having completed my course this has now given me the driver to go further with my riding. Thanks to all at Sefton IAM."
From: Christopher

“A fantastic experience from start to finish. Helensburgh event was full of information and friendly knowledgeable members. They put you at ease and gave lots of info & tips even if you were not signing up. My Instructor Elaine was exemplary in her explanations, guidance & encouragement, she quickly picked up on my deficiencies and ensured that these were worked on to bolster not only my driving skills but the commentary element which I found awkward. My own experience was faultless so I can't honestly think of any element that needs improving.” 
From: Adrian

“A very positive first experience with IAM and my examiners. The initial communication and meeting for the test was both calm and professional. My result was a pass, which was great but the advice and final debrief the test was more valuable to me. I have ridden with many experienced bikers however on this ride, test I seemed to absorb the information given at the end and immediately apply the examiners advice and directions. I look forward to my membership at IAM. Thank you to Carlo Marraffa for time and patience.”
From: Russ

“Mark Anstey is the Chief Observer for Chelmsford & District Advanced Motorcylists; he goes out of his way to support and help, and recently organised the fantastic Tour & Train weekend in Wales. He’s a lovely guy, a great teacher and inspirational rider. Thank you Mark and all CaDam observers who do the same for us."
From: Simon

“Having passed my advanced test last Saturday, I would just like to thank all at the Lichfield Advanced Motorists for the help that they have given me. They made me feel extremely welcome right from the start and I have found the training to be excellent. Special thanks must go to my observer, Mike Brinkworth. He has taken me through from thinking that I knew everything as an ADI, to realising that I didn't!! Thanks also to my examiner, Phil Shayler. He was very fair and I really enjoyed the drive around the country roads of Warwickshire. Many thanks again."
From: Simon

“Earlier this year I entered the Masters programme and chose George Simpson as my mentor. It was a great choice as George was an excellent mentor, calm, expert, experienced and above all patient! I took the opportunity to use all six of my mentored drives, and have gained so much from George. George knew that I was very nervous about the whole process and his lovely calm manner plus the demo drive he did, really helped. I came away from each drive with so many great tips and advice."
From: Henny

“When I booked my Masters test with Pete Doherty he was really helpful and accommodating when I raised my concern about the physical length of test impact on my medical condition. On the day Pete’s gentle and friendly manner helped settle my nerves, and about 15 minutes into the test I realised I was enjoying driving round the challenging route Pete had devised. Pete had even worked out somewhere we could stop at if I was struggling (in the end I didn’t need to). Afterwards I was blown away by the level of detail in Pete’s feedback. Over a cup of tea, he talked me round the whole route, road by road. Junction by junction. His feedback was incredibly constructive and I learnt a lot from him.
From: Henny

“From start to finish the process has been entirely enjoyable and rewarding. The professionalism and friendliness from everyone involved has been evident throughout, starting with my welcome from James Ettle, membership sec, and my main observer Roger Blackmore, whose advice, guidance, and general good nature was instrumental to my test result being what it was. His observer colleague Bob Bates too, was both supportive and instructive. The examiner Chris Devlin made the test itself a rewarding experience. His professional approach, demeanour and clear instructions putting me at ease. This enabled me to give of my best during the test drive. Chris' feedback was comprehensive and not rushed allowing me to take it in after the concentration levels needed on the test itself. In short, a course and experience that I would be happy to recommend, and it has spurred me on to continue to improve my driving using the IPSGA methodology.”
From: Sandie

Bruce was a very easy person to like who put me at ease immediately we met. He is obviously a very professional assessor who whilst appearing relaxed noticed every detail. I was very much reassured by his conclusion (competent) and I found his comments and guidance fair and definitely useful.
From: Bruce

DWDAM are very supportive, and my examiner Doug Miners was extremely professional and gave great feedback on ways to further improve my riding.
From: Jason

Tom was an excellent examiner. Despite me being a retired traffic police officer (some 29 Years ago) Tom made no allowances and put me ‘through the mill’. His knowledge, guidance and experience were exceptional, and I came away from our time together with a heightened confidence for the future.
From: Ken

Ray Weal was a very knowledgeable and experienced training mentor, very keen to see myself meet my goals.
From: Michael

Bob Drysedale has been a member of MAMM for decades and during that time has tutored scores of Driver Associates. His immensely successful pass rate has significantly contributed to road safety in the Moray area. Despite working full time as a teacher (recently retired) Bob has given up countless hours of his free time to help associates reach the required standard to pass the Advanced Drivers test. Bob has also held the office post of Treasurer, this is undoubtedly the most time-consuming and demanding duty on the committee and the one post very few members ever volunteer to fill. It takes many hours of hard work and dedication to sort the accounts out and ensure our membership community pay their fees not only to MAMM but IAMs. Bob has also taken on the role of membership secretary ensuring that with timely subtle reminders, group members retain their membership with payment of membership fee, and ensuring all members are aware of any relevant committee decisions and social events. His selfless dedication and loyalty are examples to all members of the group. Bob is a key member of the group and his outstanding contribution to the smooth, efficient running of the group deserves some form of recognition by IAMs.
From: Tony

Billy Johnson is another stalwart of the group. His selfless dedication and loyalty have resulted in an extremely successful motorcycle section of the group. As motorcycle coordinator for the last 6 years, Billy is the first point of contact for all motorcycle Associates. His slick professional handling and warm welcoming manner toward all new candidates result in a quick efficient Observer allocation, resulting in a fast progression to test status. During the Covid lockdown, Billy showed his dedication, enthusiasm and professional persona by ensuring all new associates were always made to feel part of the group. His selfless attitude, proactive style and unstinting support ensured all the associates were contacted regularly with teaching aids, updates and self-briefing material. During the winter Billy conducts evening lectures to all new motorcycle associates who wish to attend the sessions. His warm, witty, enlightening style instantly makes all attendees feel welcome and part of the group and ensures they have a sound understanding of the “System” utilised by IAMs and the Police motorcycle units. Billy is another dedicated, loyal, rock-solid member without which MAMM would not survive.
From: Tony

James Henderson was very patient and listened to my comments and gave a fair assessment of my driving and pointed out some improvements I could make.
From: Jennifer

I fail to see how you can improve your service. The assessor, Alan Thomas, was on time and the assessment took under the hour over an approximate 18 miles journey. Mr. Tomas was obviously very qualified, firm but also very helpful and made me feel quite relaxed. He drew my attention to a couple of points where familiarity had crept in for which I thanked him and immediately rectified my driving. All in all, approaching my 91st birthday, it was a worthwhile experience and confirmed that my ability to drive is still regarded as competent
From: Reginald

I was very impressed with the professionalism of both my observer: Terry Heath and my test examiner: Chris Hood. The course was quite demanding but very worthwhile.
From: David

My assessment by Ms Doriana Manolova was a most positive experience; she was knowledgeable, informative and friendly setting me at ease before we began the drive. Naturally I was most pleased with her assessment as I have reached an age when I felt it important to have my driving assessed.
From: Michael

My thanks to Andy Bloomer for using his skills and professionalism to improve the safe driving standards of drivers like me. Apologies for delay in reply. Thanks again.
From: Eddy

Alan was a very patient teacher and gave me very use full feedback on my driving ability which I have taken on board.
From: Brian

Sheena Crumlish, my observer, was superb in every respect. The whole experience has been rewarding and enjoyable.
From: Julian

I was very impressed by the professional approach of Phil Shaw. It made it clear to me that this was not a casual drive but was a structured and objective assessment of my driving ability. His questions and observations were relevant and constructive. I really appreciated his comments and his observation on where my driving could be improved was helpful and while I have gained confidence from his overall report it has also made me aware of where I can improve. I felt I was in the company of an expert and the experience was valuable.
From: James

Very enjoyable experience, no pressure, observer Ollie Webster very knowledgable, helpful & keen. All people involved proved to be very keen, enthusiastic & helpful. Great fun experience.
From: Michael

David, who assessed my driving, was both friendly and professional, putting me at ease before we began the drive and giving helpful advice throughout when he thought it would be useful. I enjoyed the experience much more than I had anticipated and will recommend an assessment to other drivers.
From: Jeff

EKAM wants to say thank you to a couple who have made an immense contribution to the successful running of our club who together have clocked up 30 years of service in one form or another. After all these years of supporting the club in many ways, latterly as club secretary and observer (Ian) and magazine editor (Janice), moved into committee retirement in November 2023. It would be too much to list all the tasks they have carried out in support of the club. Never tiring to take on duties that others suddenly drop, or volunteers couldn’t be found for. It is no exaggeration to say that their tireless support has kept the club going when at times it may have folded.
From: East Kent Advanced Motorcyclists

I really enjoyed the time spent with my examiner, Ryan Francis, whose comments and suggestions were extremely helpful. I really do enjoy taking the advanced tests, they not only ensure my driving remains at a satisfactory standard but there is always something new to learn from such experienced drivers such as Ryan.
From: Brian

Trevor Shearsmith made me feel relaxed and at ease - it didn't feel like an assessment at all; he alaso has given me some useful tips moving forward with the training I hope to do in the future.
From: Peter

Having recently passed my Advanced driving test with a F1rst pass, i want to thank my observer Fred Davidson for his excellent tuition throughout my time with him, he was the best.
From: Alastair

My instructor Mr Alan Thomas was v good in giving me the Confidence to complete the Driving experience. He was aware that I was nervous to begin with. His instructions were clear & concise. I am now much more confident when driving. Plus, I am now the main driver, as my husband has Macular Degeneration. Altogether a good experience.
From: Sylvia

David Fryer provided some useful feedback and identified areas where I could improve my driving skills.
From: David

From the first contact with IAM through to my test, it was a great experience. The office staff at IAM HQ were very quick to process me through. I received my logbook in good time. My induction after that happened quickly too. Then all my observed drives went well each month. All the Observers were amazing and so knowledgeable. It was great learning so much from different Observers. My pre-test run (about a week before my test) was also great. This observer spent about two hours with me to make sure we covered as much as possible. Then came the test itself. I was relieved when I met my Examiner... He was a normal human being!!! He put me at ease, and he was so professional. I just want to add.... when he was giving me directions, he said my name, which was a nice touch as that made me relax a bit too. Well done team IAM RoadSmart! Keep up the great work!
From: Sian

My Observer, Chief Observer and Examiner were very professional and knowledgeable in the way they communicated and conducted the training.
From: Mike

I found the assessment experience helpful and informative. My assessor, Alan, was at pains from the start to put me at ease and at no time did I feel under any pressure. His comments and advice were in all ways appropriate to the situation and, as well as things to think about as I continue to drive, was reassured by what he had to say.
From: John

The assessment was fair and honest. David Cass was a pleasant companion, and his comments were clear and helpful. It was a useful learning experience.
From: David

Carolyn Menteith has been my Observer and mentor for my IAM Masters for which I have recently passed. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the superb support I have received. Carolyn exhibits the highest level of professionalism and knowledge and is a glowing example of the organisation at its very best. Her knowledge is excellent. However, one of the best things is the way she imparts this. She is kind, patient, firm, and fair and helps the person being observed build up their confidence and skills. She keeps herself updated over and beyond and thus is a great motivator, always striving for the best in driving. I cannot thank her enough.
From: Margaret

Mike Chapman made me feel very relaxed, which is always a good way to start a review. As Mike realised, I've only had this car couple of weeks and not fully sure yet of all its functions. The route taken was a combination of roads I've driven on before and others that I'd not been on before. I am pleased with the route taken and the challenges it provided. Thank you, Mike. I will take your advice and brush up on every item that I've let slip in the many years I've been on the road.
From: Mike

My Observer Ken was not only highly skilled but also supportive, compassionate, and patient throughout - on reflection perhaps it was fortunate to have this new hobby to focus on. IAM RoadSmart were likewise very understanding in the circumstances, and flexible in enabling me to complete this which I am very grateful for. I not only had driven with Ken but also Viv, Ralph, and Martin - all role-modelling the vision of IAM RoadSmart so convincingly and I applaud their dedication to so many hours of volunteering. Overall, it has been a remarkable experience for me.
From: Helen

Right from the start with my Observer Richard to Mark my 'mock' Examiner to Peter my Examiner the whole experience was a very positive one and I can't thank those guys enough, I have learned so much during my time with IAM RoadSmart and I'm looking forward to using my newly gained skills every time I get on the bike. Thank you all.
From: James

A big shout-out to Andy Peel. Motorcycle Examiner, National Observer Assessor (motorcycle), Masters Mentor (motorcycle), Skills Day coach (motorcycle). Just wanted to say thank you for making me the rider that I am. Wouldn’t be here without you buddy.
From: Christopher

This was a very enjoyable experience and my trainer, David Fryer, was an extremely pleasant man. Very knowledgeable, he explained his observations & comments clearly and understandably. He was pleased with the route I planned and commented about the good mix of roads I’d chosen. It is well worth spending the time planning this so that you get a well-balanced drive that can be completed in the allotted time.
From: Leslie

My experience completing the Advanced Drivers course through IAM was fantastic! Tony Rutherford, my Observer, was an excellent, well-informed, and friendly tutor who allowed me to learn at a pace which was appropriate for me. The knowledge and skills which I have learned from Tony are invaluable and have helped me become a safer and more confident driver. I hope to take my Master’s and train as an Observer in the future so hopefully, I will have an opportunity to work with Tony again. I would recommend IAM courses to anyone who is looking to become a knowledgeable and skilled driver.
From: Luke

An excellent Observer Mike Hawkins and all the others that helped me didn’t feel under pressure and all Training was excellent and helped me be a better Rider. Very professional preparation and training AT Squared. Extremely professional Test Examiner. I couldn’t have wished for better personnel to train and examine my riding. To test standards. Thank you……
From: Cedric

Very, very pleased with the review. Andy Smith was extremely knowledgeable, and I wish the review had been 30 minutes longer. I learnt a lot.
From: Janet

I completed my Advanced Driver Test 34 years ago and since gaining a full motorcycle licence some 26 years ago I have always wanted to do the Advanced Rider course however job and house moves meant that I was never in one location long enough to feel that I had time to complete the course. However, on relocating to Kent post-COVID I could guarantee the time, so I signed up. I cannot praise the members and Observers of KAMG highly enough - from the very beginning they were all supportive and welcoming. My Observer, Paul Aspinall, was superb and I literally would not have got through the course, nor achieved a F1rst in my test, without him - I wish there was an IAM excellence award I could nominate him for. My riding has improved beyond all recognition because of taking the course. Thank you, IAM.
From: Ian

Beth was my Observer from February to May this year but was far more of a coach and mentor. She was very patient, very precise, very encouraging, and very professional. As a result of those qualities, I achieved a 'Strong Pass' on my test and became - 60 years after passing my UK Driving Test - a proud member of IAM.
From: Ian

I first met Colin when I joined KAMG, and you could tell his enthusiasm for passing on his skills. On my journey to passing my test, Colin took me for a check ride, and I can still remember some of the things he said. He became my Master's mentor and a great friend. He is always at the end of the phone for help and will always be available if you are in need. He has given support to many people both at KAMG and other Groups giving talks etc. I can’t imagine how my time with KAMG would have been without him.
From: Simon

Malcolm is a kind soul who cares not just for road safety, but also the wellbeing of his associates and colleagues, going above and beyond. In his local role for Hull Malcolm consistently puts his name forward on challenging tasks and takes it upon himself to promote IAM and the values they represent in his local area and across the UK. Malcolm’s kindness and willingness to empower change ensures he gives confidence and comfort to those around him but also to save lives.
From: Dan

Barbara is the unsung hero of our local Group; she arranges the Observers and Associates each month with almost military precision. She is also the Group secretary and puts in numerous hours of her own time. Considering that she doesn't ride, her efforts are amazing and very much should be recognised. Without her, the Group would be in chaos!!
From: Michael

Paul started East London Advanced Motorcyclists in 1997 and has been involved with the Group ever since - 26 years! He has served the Group as an Observer throughout that time and has also held various posts on the committee, including Chairman. Many motorcyclists have benefited from his wisdom and experience over the last 26 years, Paul has made a major contribution to road safety. Even more impressive, Paul is ALSO chairman of the separate Northeast London & Essex CAR Group and has been active with them for many years. As if that were not enough, Paul has recently agreed to take on the role of Chief Observer with that Group. Truly an astounding level of commitment to the cause of safer driving & riding.
From: Anthony

Neil has only been a member for a few years and only started riding 5 years ago. He’s quickly achieved a distinction at Masters. He regularly helps at events both in the organisation and running them on the day. He’s provided photography shoots on rides and at events. He often will lead our mid-week social ride as well as offer his help as a guest for our training programs. He gets involved in trips away both in the organisation and leading rides. He’s about to embark on training to become a national Observer. He is a very valuable Group member, very welcoming of newcomers and highly thought of by everyone.
From: Charles

Phil is currently the chairman of the Redditch advanced motorcyclists Group. He’s been an Observer for many years, completed his Masters, and attends multiple IAM events throughout the year. He is a skills day instructor. his dedication to IAM is unmatched by any other person in our Group. When we have trainees who cannot make our regular Sunday observed rides, he takes them on in the week and works around what they can do. His knowledge of IAM, in terms of Groups, events, procedures, and pretty much everything is unparalleled. So much so that many questions meet the reply of “it depends”. Phil is the gel that keeps us all together. We have a committee of around eight and he keeps us all motivated to provide a range of benefits to our associates and members. We provide social rides weekly, social events monthly, and Group rides with overnight or several-night stays. His dedication is inspiring and deserves a mention!
From: Natalie

Tina gets involved everywhere at KAMG IAM RoadSmart motorcycle Group. Former Chair, current deputy Chair, gets involved in recruitment, /shows/stands for KAMG and IAM, skills days training, training weekend, socials - EVERYTHING/EVERYWHERE! Tireless and selfless - and always unrelentingly cheerful. Case in point - training weekend to Peterborough she was unable to ride, recovering from an operation on her leg. She drove up by car, handed out her self-prepared, individually named info packs for all participants for routes, stops, and Observer/trainee rota for several observed rides over 2 days, planned the stops, advised location managers, prepared entertainment for our night away, coordinated menu choices - and even helped clear the dishes! In our Group magazine 'Riders' she is referred to as 'The Underwood Sisters' as she's just everywhere! A small woman with a huge heart.
From: Niels

I have had THE BEST day on the Skills Day at Mallory Park. All the instructors were amazing and my Coach was Tina who was just fabulous. I have learnt so much today! Thank you IAM RoadSmart for putting these days on! I cant wait for the next date!
From: Jessica

I had bought a modern hybrid and was worried that my skills weren't up to date. So I put myself through the Advanced Course again (I had been a member in the 80's). My observer (Antony) was great and after just a couple of observed drives, he suggested I was ready for test. A check drive with Nettie followed, just to make sure and I was at test with Simon. No one was more amazed than me to get a F1RST!! Thanks all
From: Chris

Everyone I've met through HBAM have been great, they have a way of putting you at ease. I recently passed my advanced riding with thanks to my observer Bruno Zago and my check ride observer Paul Southwell, both have a calming manor and are able to put you at ease.
From: Paul 

Martin Kemp was an excellent instructor and I really loved my drives with him. He was incredibly knowledgeable, kind and fun to study the system with. Tony Knibb was also a fantastic examiner, and was really friendly and fair. Thank you both!
From: Stephanie  Date: 31/10/22

My world has opened up to the joys of motorcycling since joining SWAM and I am now looking to take my observer training in order to pass on the skills that have been drilled into me. Thanks all at IAM.
From: Martin 

Liam Smith Glasgow South Group is an outstanding Observer. Patient. Skilled. Positive. Tommy Campbell Test examiner is also outstanding. Both huge credits to IAM RoadSmart.
From: James