HEREFORD Times news editor Ian Morris has been continuing his course with the Herefordshire Advanced Motorists.

He has now been out on five drives with his observer Robin Turner and this week made his way down to the county's only motorway.

"The trip from Hereford down to the M50 near Ross-on-Wye was fairly straightforward despite some narrow lanes and steep climbs," reports Ian.

"But the approach on to Junction 3 of the motorway certainly had its problems. The road twists sharply before drivers cross the bridge above the motorway. Motorists then have to stop at a couple of junctions on the Gorsley side of the M50 before they can make their way towards Ross.

"Encountering so many potential hazards in such a short space of time threw my concentration and I did not have enough speed as I turned on to the M50.

"Fortunately, the cars behind me were a sufficient distance that they did not need to brake, but this was an excellent lesson in how planning makes the difference between an ordinary motorist and an advanced one.

"Having now clocked up a good number of hours on the road with my observer, and putting into practice the advice I have been given, Mr Turner praised the smoothness of the remainder of the journey.

"The braking and acceleration were not as severe as before and the gear changes were not as noticeable as two months ago.

"However, something that I have noticed is that my petrol consumption has come down. And with today's prices it certainly helps."