PRESTON'S learner drivers are stuck in a log-jam - waiting for their tests

The British School of Motoring claim a rush of learners taking their driving test before a new written exam is introduced has caused a four-month tail-back.

From July 1 all learner drivers face a lengthy exam with tough questions on the highway code and car maintenance before they can take their practical driving test.

Steve Stewart of Steve's School of Motoring said it was the most radical shake-up of the driving test since it was introduced in 1934.

He said: "The government is introducing the theory exam to meet European standards. It will improve road safety and a tougher test will cut number of cars on the roads."

And John Roberts, who owns Arena School of Motoring, said "I welcome the new tests because driving is no longer a simple matter of getting from A to B. More traffic has lead to road rage and driving requires a great deal of professional skill and patience."

So far only 130 new exam centres nationwide have been set up and learners face travelling out of town to sit the tests.

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