LOCAL MSPs John Lamont and Rachael Hamilton attended the Borders under 17 Driving Day run by IAm Roadsmart earlier this week.

During the two day event over 60 young drivers were offered practical basic driving with approved instructors, were given advice on braking and safety systems and had a go at slow speed slaloms designed to improve car handling skills. The initiative is the brainchild of IAm Roadsmart - formerly the Institute of Advanced Motorists and and was held at the Charterhall Airfield, near Duns.

Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire MSP John Lamont and South of Scotland MSP Rachael Hamilton both attended the event so see the young drivers in action and to discuss what steps could be taken to improve safety amongst young drivers.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Lamont said: “I was really impressed with the whole set up at the Iam Roadsmart driving day. It was all built around allowing youngsters to have some fun in a safe and controlled manner and to prepare them for their future as new drivers.

“Sadly in the Borders we’ve had a number of tragedies involving young people on our roads, so initiatives such as this one are really important to help prepare new drivers for the road.”

Rachael Hamilton MSP said: “I was delighted to lend my support to an initiative giving young drivers the opportunity to get a feel for handling a car before they venture onto the roads for real.

“The success of the day was largely down to John Cleland from Clelands in Galashiels, who worked so hard to get the whole initiative off the ground. Anything that can be done to make driving more accessible in a safe environment is something to be supported.”