SCOTTISH Borders Council is encouraging older motorists to sign up to new course, to help them drive safely for longer.

Drivewise Borders sessions have been set up for 65s and will run throughout the year, starting this month.

The refresher courses, which are free and have Wednesday sessions in mornings and afternoons, aim to give people greater confidence when driving.

The scheme also allows older drivers to book a 60 to 90 minute practical driving session with an instructor, which is not a test of skills and knowledge but an opportunity to increase confidence and practice any areas that may need updated.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson told the Border Telegraph: “The Council has worked with partners including Police Scotland to put on these sessions which we think will prove really beneficial to drivers aged over 65 in the Borders. Older drivers have been identified as being one of the groups who are at greater risk of being injured in road accidents.

“To continue driving safely, there is a need to recognise that changes can happen, and seek help and advice to be able to drive safely for longer. This is what these Drivewise Borders sessions offer.”

The venues and dates for the first half of the plan are as follows:

Tait Hall, Kelso – April 26, 9.30am to 11.30am; 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Albert Road Community Centre, Eyemouth – May 3, 9.30am to 11.30am; 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Lauder Community and Leisure Centre – May 10, 9.30am to 11.30am
Victoria Halls, Selkirk – May 17, 9.30am to 11.30am; 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Burnfoot Hub, Hawick – May 24, 9.30am to 11.30am; 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Coldstream Town Hall – May 31- 9.30am to 11.30am
Earlston Church Hall – May 31, 1.30pm to 3.30pm