Youngsters take to the wheel at Rotherham's New York Stadium

DRIVING lessons for youngsters launched at New York Stadium — with children as young as ten getting behind the wheel.
Liam LynchLiam Lynch
Liam Lynch

The new sessions, aimed at ten- to 17-year-olds and launched on Sunday (12), are designed to reduce accidents among newly-qualified drivers.

And Young Driver’s first event at a specially designed course at NYS offered anyone aged ten or over the chance to practise in a safe but realistic environment.

Kim Stanton, the firm’s managing director, said: “We have been looking for a larger venue in South Yorkshire for some time now.

“The site, as well as being in a great central location, is in a large area which will allow us to create an interesting course, providing opportunities for youngsters to try out a variety of driving manoeuvres. 

“Those who have previously used our other sites in the area will find it allows them to try out more driving skills, and for new starters, it's a great place to begin.”

Only eight per cent of drivers are aged 24 or under but the group accounts for nearly a third of the people killed in crashes.

The Young Driver sessions — from £34.95 — use dual-controlled Skodas on a course with traffic signs and areas for various manoeuvres.

Liam Lynch travelled over from Doncaster to take part. The 22-year-old has learning difficulties meaning he cannot take regular driving lessons.

It was Liam’s first time behind the wheel and he said: “It was fantastic, so great to be able to drive. I can’t wait to do it again.”

Rotherham United chief operating officer Paul Douglas said: “We are delighted to be playing a part in this groundbreaking scheme.

“Early evidence from these courses suggests that we can significantly reduce the number of accidents on the road.”