A DRIVER training course which allows 10-year olds to get behind the wheel in a bid to create a safer next generation of drivers, is to launch at Ewood Park.

Young Driver, which provides driving lessons for 10-17 year olds, will be running events at the home of Blackburn Rovers Football Club from Sunday February 16.

Car park H will be transformed into a realistic road system on selected weekend dates so youngsters can work on a range of driving skills and manoeuvres.

Youngsters have lessons in dual controlled Vauxhall Corsas, with highly qualified instructors – with the aim of extending the learning period to create a safer next generation of newly qualified drivers.

A road system is created, with traffic signs, roundabouts and junctions, along with special areas to practice manoeuvres such as steering control and parking. The emphasis of the lessons is on safety and fun and encouraging youngsters to consider how to drive responsibly, giving them time to perfect driving skills such as gear changes, braking and steering without the pressures of public roads.

One in five newly qualified drivers crashes within six months of passing their test, rising to 40 per cent of 17-year old males.

Sue Waterfield, head of marketing at Young Driver, said: “We are really excited to be launching at Ewood Park and bringing Young Driver to Blackburn for the first time.

"The venue will provide plenty of opportunities for youngsters to try out lots of different driving skills and techniques – whether they’re a beginner or have already had a few lessons.

“Clearly something needs to be done to tackle the seriously high accident rates of our young drivers, as almost 1,300 17-24 year olds are killed or seriously injured in road accidents each year."

Visit www.youngdriver.com or call 0333 577 9010.