DORSET County Council is offering drivers aged 70 and over a chance to take part in a discussion about driving issues and take an observed practical refresher drive in their own car at a later date.

The two-hour theory session, costing £5, does not involve any driving and covers subjects including better observation, avoiding distractions, allowing greater safety margins, dual carriageway and motorway driving and correct procedures at roundabouts.

A separate 90-minute, one-to-one practical driving session is on local roads and will include town and country driving.

This aims to improve defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness and better road positioning.

One driver who took part in a pilot of the scheme said: “It has given me confidence in my driving ability and the assessment has reassured me that I should continue to drive.”

Information and the cost of these courses is at www.dorsetforyou.com/roadsafety/gold.

To book a place, email roadsafety@dorsetcc.gov.uk or call 01305 224558.