BEING observed driving is a weird experience especially, when it’s 18 years after you’ve passed your test.

Motorists gearing up to take their driving test can only get on the road if they have someone sitting next to them, so they grow used to having company.

But for many people – myself included – driving is mainly a solo experience.

The good news is you soon get used having a HAM observer with you – and it means you pick up lots of handy tips.

I’ve never been an over-confident driver – which in many respects is a very good thing – and I’ve always been aware that I would never win any awards for my knowledge of motoring.

I’ve certainly seen some of the gaps exposed as I have driven around the roads of north Herefordshire with my observer Ian Law.

When negotiating a stop sign at the Mortimer’s Cross crossroads I forgot I had to stop properly, put the gear in neutral and put on the hand brake.

That is until I had left the junction and I suddenly remembered – just as Ian pointed it out to me.

Ian also informed me how the different markings down the middle of the road can provide you with information about driving conditions – it’s worth digging out a copy of the Highway Code to check this.

I’ve driven past road signs that left me bewildered – a ‘no pavement’ sign being a particular case in point. Admittedly, you don’t see too many of these but when you consider the safety implications it’s well worth knowing.

I’ve also worked on my use of gears, observation, and decision-making.

But some old habits are hard to break – such as putting my hand on the gear stick, changing my mind and taking it off again.

I’ve certainly started to improve my knowledge with the help of a book supplied by HAM when you sign up.

Their Advanced driving – the essential guide is a real help when it comes to reminding yourself of all the things you knew when you took your test.

It can be a real eye-opener and is packed with information that will lead to you becoming a much safer driver who gets more out of motoring.

HAM, which is affiliated to the Institute of Advanced Motorists, can be contacted by calling Mary Bevan on 01874 712267. Bookings can be made for courses in the new year.