Young motorists will have an opportunity to improve their driving skills and knowledge during an event taking place at the TT Grandstand next month.
 
The Young Drivers 2014 Manx Motor Meet, which is being held on Sunday 7 December between 10.30am and 3.30pm, is specifically aimed at 16 to 25-year-olds.
 
It is hoped to build on the popularity of a similar event in September that saw more than 150 young people benefit from friendly and practical advice from experienced drivers, mechanics and road safety officers.
 
The successful format is being retained, with contributions from the Police, Youth Services, Department of Infrastructure Road Safety Team, Manx Auto Sport, Energy FM and a number of corporate sponsors.
 
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 a variety of prizes and test their skills in a rally car courtesy of Manx Auto Sport.
 
There is also a free slice of pizza, mince pie and hot chocolate on offer for everyone who takes part. Members of the Air Training Corps will be providing a charity car wash and there will be stalls with Christmas gift ideas.
 
It is hoped that as many young people as possible will turn up at the TT Grandstand in their vehicles. The aim is to encourage safer driving and 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: ‘Statistics show that a disproportionate number of young people are killed or seriously injured on roads throughout the British Isles. Manx Motor Meet is a way for young drivers in the Isle of Man to learn skills that will stand them in good stead for many years to come. The first event at the Bowl car park was a resounding success and a number of organisations have again joined forces to respond to the demand for a follow up.’
 
Sergeant Wendy Barker of the Central Neighbourhood Policing Team added: ‘It was fantastic at the last event to see so many young people engaging with the local garages and their mechanics. We really felt that some good information was passed on. The feedback for another event was very positive and we have taken on board what people said in relation to holding something on a weekend and at a venue where more local businesses could attend. We encourage everyone who is about to learn to drive, is on an ‘R’ plate or has been driving for a while to come and see us on the 7th. It will be great fun and there will be lots of people on hand to offer advice and tips. You can even have a go on an auto solo in a rally car and really test your skills.’
 
Further information is available on the Manx Motor Meet Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/379615728858320/ 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.