Who is the best young driver from Glasgow?

Do you have what it takes for the Young Driver Challenge?

In fact, entrants to the Young Driver Challenge 2017 can be aged just 10, so up to seven years before they can take their test, or even drive a car on public roads.

The competition is run by Young Driver, which is the country’s largest provider of pre-17 driving tuition, having given over 400,000 lessons at more than 40 venues across Britain.

Until the end of July, instructors at Glasgow’s Braehead venue are now on the hunt for the best young drivers in the area to put forward to a national final which will take place at the NEC in Birmingham on September 30.

Forty finalists will compete in two categories – 10-13 years and 14-16.

The challenge aims to encourage youngsters to consider responsible and safe driving, with top marks given to those who show the best levels of control and awareness.

Entrants drive a real, dual-control car, with a fully qualified driving instructor, and are marked on driving skills and manoeuvres, including parallel parking, independent driving, emergency stops, steering, judgement and positioning.

Prizes on offer include both pre and post-17 driving lessons and £500 off an Admiral car insurance policy.

Kim Stanton, who heads up Young Driver, said: “We’re delighted to be running the challenge for the fourth year.

“In previous years our judges, which include ex-police drivers and advanced instructors, have been stunned to see how good these youngsters are, and the level of responsibility they show behind the wheel.

“These awards give us a great opportunity to show the wider public that too.

“The aim of Young Driver has always been to create a safer next generation of drivers, and the way to do that is to start teaching youngsters over a longer period of time and from a younger age.

“Research shows this can half the accident rate when it comes to them passing their test, as by the time they’re on the roads they have mastered the mechanics of driving and can concentrate more on interactions with other road users.”

For more information on Young Driver, to book a lesson or find out more about entering the Young Driver Challenge 2017, log on to www.youngdriver.com or call 0844 371 9010.