A YOUNG driver has been named one of the best in the country.

Luke Houghton, 14, from Blackburn, secured the accolade after taking part in the Young Driver Challenge last weekend.

Luke, who attends Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio, was one of 40 finalists, all aged under 17, who earned their place competing at the event which was held at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire.

He competed in the 14-16 age category and was praised for his safe driving skills. The aim of the Young Driver scheme is to create a safer next generation of drivers. Luke commented: “I had a brilliant day, it was great to spend so much time behind the wheel with new instructors. I really love learning to drive and I’m proud of how well I’ve done to get to the final. It’s great to think that I’m improving my skills all the time so by the time I’m 17 I’ll already have that head-start of knowing how to safely control a car.”

TV presenter and motoring expert Quentin Willson awarded the finalists their prizes. All finalists received a medal, a complimentary 60 minute Young Driver gift voucher and a signed copy of Quentin Willson’s latest book: Learn to Drive without Tears and Tantrums.