Young drivers will have an opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge at an event taking place in Douglas on Friday (September 19).
The Young Drivers Manx Motor Meet, which is being held at the Bowl car park between 7.30pm and 10pm, is specifically aimed at 16 to 25-year-olds.
As well as receiving a free winter health check for their vehicles, participants will be able to pick up useful tips and guidance, enter competitions to win fuel, service and valet vouchers and take part in a special auto test organised by Manx Auto Sport. There is also a free slice of pizza on offer for everyone who turns up.
The event is a joint initiative involving the Police, Youth Services, Department of Infrastructure Road Safety Team, Manx Auto Sport and Energy FM.
It is hoped that as many young people as possible will turn up in their vehicles and take advantage of friendly and practical advice from experienced drivers, mechanics and road safety officers.
Handy hints on vehicle maintenance will help to take the mystery out of what happens beneath the bonnet, and there will be demonstrations on how to change a wheel safely.
The aim is to encourage safer driving and support efforts to reduce the number of fatalities and serious incidents on the Isle of Man’s roads.
John Houghton MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Highway Services, said: ‘Driving is important to young people as it provides independence and mobility. It also comes with great responsibility and the Manx Motor Meet is a way for young drivers to learn skills that will stand them in good stead for many years to come. The emphasis is on more fun, more skill and less speed.’
Sergeant Wendy Barker of the Central Neighbourhood Policing Team added: ‘Statistics show that a disproportionate number of young people are killed and seriously injured on roads throughout the British Isles. In the Isle of Man we have witnessed terrible tragedies this year involving young drivers and passengers. Unfortunately police officers and youth workers are still seeing examples of irresponsible driving by a minority of young drivers, so a number of agencies have joined together to offer practical advice and support.’
Further information is available of the Youth Services Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/events/598849003556804/ and comprehensive road safety advice can be viewed at http://www.gov.im/categories/travel-traffic-and-motoring/road-safety/
The organisers wish to thank all the local businesses that are supporting the event.
Photo - John Houghton MHK
