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Campaigning Esther passes her advanced driving test

Esther Rantzen, the TV presenter and prospective Parliamentary candidate for Luton South, has passed her advance driving test and joined the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists).

Esther took the ninety minute test in her Toyota Prius and passed first time, said the IAM.

Writing in Advanced Driving, the summer edition of the IAM members'
magazine, Esther said that she had enjoyed focusing on skilled driving. But most of the time driving is something she endures rather than enjoys.

"I am only too aware that now that I don't smoke, driving is the most dangerous thing I do apart from lying in bed - where of course most deaths occur.

"My advanced driving test with the IAM was a gift from a friend. At first I thought it might be an insult because I assumed he thought I needed further training. But when I passed, I decided it was a tribute, and I have thoroughly enjoyed focusing on skilled driving."

To pass the advanced driving test, associates have to demonstrate that they can make good progress in safety, not just on urban roads, but on rural roads and motorways too. The examiner - a police advanced driver - will want to see that the candidate is in the right lane, doing the right speed at the right time.

Esther confessed that she has little time for impatient drivers.

"The one thing that irritates me most is impatient drivers behind me at a junction, who hoot at me while I'm checking both ways to ensure it is safe to move out. If I die, or kill someone else, by obeying their angry honks, they will be delayed even further," she said.

Drivers who prepare for the IAM's voluntary advanced driving test are statistically less likely to crash.

A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that "advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement", with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude.

Esther Rantzen CBE joins other celebrities including Julian Clary and Des O'Connor who have passed their IAM advanced driving test.

Also in the award-winning Advanced Driving magazine this summer:

* Ten great drives - where to find truly inspirational road trips

* Trauma team - on the streets and in the air with London's Air Ambulance Service and

* Setting the future agenda: IAM responds to Government proposal for road safety to 2020.