Training firm DriveTech UK has won a three-year contract to improve the behaviour and driving of drivers who commit motoring offences in the Thames Valley.

The company fought off competition from 14 other firms to win the contract to provide training for drivers who would normally face prosecution after minor accidents.

Under the Thames Valley Driver Improvement Scheme, drivers can opt for re-training instead of facing a range of punishments. More than 800 have already attended a pilot scheme run by the Crowthorne-based company. It has been extended to cover Buckinghamshire and will shortly be extended to Berkshire.

Insp Malcolm Collis, of Thames Valley Police, said: "The Thames Valley region is pleased to be linked to this scheme, which makes a major contribution to road safety. We're committed to reducing collisions and injuries on our roads.

"We're sure most people will agree that educating drivers is an effective way of doing this."

DriveTech UK managing director Chris Howell said: "It's better to train than merely punish.

"Putting points on licences and fining people doesn't address possible shortcomings in individuals' driving techniques or attitudes. "This kind of training is a far more effective way of correcting poor driving habits.

"We're aware of clients' particular problems and why they've been accused, so we can concentrate on what went wrong, to make them better and safer drivers in future."