THERE is still time for young would-be drivers to sign up for a pre-driver training session taking pace this Friday (July 18) at Nottingham Forest football ground.

Run by Nottinghamshire County Council, the session runs from 9am until 4pm, is open to all 15-17 year-olds who live or are educated in Nottinghamshire and costs £35. Pupils don’t need a provisional driving licence as the training takes place away from the public highway.

Booking is essential and can be made by phoning 0300 500 8080.

The council has been holding the pre-driver sessions for several years now as part of its ongoing programme of education for young people in a bid to cut road traffic casualties in the county.

“This course gives young people their first experience behind the wheel of a car in a safe, controlled, environment with fully qualified driving instructors,” said Pam Shaw, the council’s road safety manager.

“This Friday’s course is aimed especially at those pupils who have finished their GCSEs and are looking for something to do.”

As well as two hours in-car training, the pre-driver training days also include advice on how to choose a good driving instructor and workshops on the responsibilities that come with being a driver, including the effects – and repercussions – of drink or drugs on a person’s driving abilities.

There will also be practical demonstrations of safe stopping distances and cornering techniques.