LATEST research shows that motorists in the Borders have experienced the highest increase in car insurance in the UK.

The statistics, released this week by comparison site confused.com, show car premiums rose by 23 per cent (around £99) in the region compared to last year, with drivers aged under 25 expected to pay more than £1,000 on average for car insurance.

The company also announced that there has been a 17 per cent rise across the UK as a whole.

And Scottish Borders Council are promoting their IAM RoadSmart scheme to help teach young drivers and reduce their hefty premiums.

SBC’s Executive Member for Community Safety, Councillor Donald Moffat, told us: "We unfortunately saw seven deaths on Borders’ roads in the first quarter of 2016/17, and while 17 to 25 year old drivers were not involved in all of the tragic incidents, we know that young people are more vulnerable to accidents.

"We want our young people to be independent but it is important they have the appropriate skills to drive on our roads, which can be challenging due to the rural nature of the Borders.

"That is why the advanced driver course is such a great opportunity for young people to boost their confidence and knowledge," he added.

"It also brings added benefits such as potentially cheaper car insurance, which I am sure would be welcomed by young drivers faced with a typical annual policy of over £1,000."

Scottish Borders Council (SBC) joined up with IAM RoadSmart two years ago to offer 17 to 25 year old drivers in the region the chance to improve their skills with the advanced driver scheme - with the full £149 fee refunded upon completion thanks to Council sponsorship.

Well over 100 young people have now passed the scheme, with further sessions starting on Tuesday, October 18 and Sunday, October 23 respectively.

Anyone wishing to sign up can visit http://www.iamroadsmart.com, phone on 0300 303 1137 (quote SBC15) or email bordersyoungdriver@iam.org.uk. Further information is also available at http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/skillforlife.