About Us

We are an independent charity, operating as an Official Provider of IAM RoadSmart courses. In practice, this means that our volunteer Observers are trained and qualified to exacting national standards. We are proud to be a part of IAM RoadSmart, whilst at the same time we can control our own social events, member benefits and promotional activity.

We are a community of volunteers, giving our time to providing local activities and coaching. We welcome any Associate or Member who is able to volunteer for any of a wide range of activities. These include:

• Offering our Members regular refresher drives with one of our Observers.

• Helping to organising Group meetings, which are held regularly. They cover topics of interest to advanced drivers and provide an opportunity to socialise with like minded drivers.

• Becoming involved in the publication of our member newsletter,

• Contributing to our social media activities.

• Helping to maintain this website.

• Taking part in a range of interesting and lively volunteering activities, in areas which help to improve the safety of our local roads and give something back to the community and our organisation.

• And, of course, for Members, training to become an Observer with the Group and then passing their skills to our Associates.

What is Advanced Driving?

Advanced Driving emphasises safe and responsible driving practices. We focus on skills like defensive driving, hazard awareness, smooth control of the vehicle, progressive driving and adherence to traffic laws. By the time that you are an Advanced Driver, You will be able to anticipate road conditions, and adjust your speed accordingly, developing a more fluid and efficient driving style. Although we develop the ability to drive progressively, the primary goal is to ensure safety, not encourage speeding. It's about being a skilled and responsible driver in various road conditions.

All this means that we will go beyond the basics of car control. We help you develop a system that aims to enhance your safety, improve efficiency, and reduce the overall stress of driving.

Here are some of the main principles of Advanced Driving:

1. Advanced drivers are skilled at anticipating potential hazards and reacting proactively. They continuously scan the road ahead, using their peripheral vision to identify potential threats. This heightened level of observation allows them to respond effectively to changing road conditions and the behaviour of other road users.

2. Defensive driving is at the core of advanced driving. It involves driving systematically and anticipating the actions of other drivers. Advanced drivers always avoid driving aggressively, preferring to make unobtrusive progress through traffic.

3. Advanced drivers have a deep understanding of their vehicle’s capabilities and limitations. They take the time to understand the control and systems available to them.

4. Advanced drivers aim for safe, smooth, systematic, progressive and legal driving. Smooth driving not only conserves energy but also enhances passenger comfort.