North Staffs Advanced Motorists
'Skill with Responsibility'

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Name: -                  Alan W Tideswell

Occupation: -         Company Director

Why I’m an Observer: -

I originally passed my IAM test way back in 1973 and kept membership up for quite some years, but the inevitable happened, it lapsed and I felt my driving and observations diminishing, I didn’t worry because I knew I was a good driver (or so I thought) until the day came when I didn’t see the speed limit change and was caught by a traffic camera, three points followed on my license, the first time ever time I had points on my license in over 30 years driving. It was clear to me then,  it was time to go back to the IAM.  The following week I contacted the North Staffs Group (NSAM) and the rest, as they say, is history.

I was allocated an Observer to get me back up to test standard and after passing the test I was so grateful for all he had done for me I felt I wanted to give something back to the group, so decided I would train to become an Observer too.

As an Observer you get a tremendous sense of achievement when you take on an Associate and see their driving and skill in handling the car improve over the weeks, then go on to pass the test.  You can also see how much the Associate is enjoying the whole process. In February 2009 I was asked if I would like to train to become a Senior Observer  -  I didn’t even have to think it through, the answer was an immediate yes please and I qualified in December 2009.