BRACKLEY teenager Michael Bishop is the area's youngest advanced driver.

He passed his advanced test just a few months after getting rid of his L-plates - and said more young motorists should follow his example.

Mr Bishop, 18, said: "I knew how many young people were involved in road accidents and I decided to learn more about driving and improve my technique.

"My driving instructor Andy King recommended the Banbury branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, and I went to one of their regular monthly get-togethers."

He said: "I was a bit nervous and did not know what to expect but I was made very welcome."

Mr Bishop said he was thrilled at passing his advanced test and wanted to progress further to become a trained observer for the IAM.

He said: "My advanced test examiner was someone who trains police drivers. To be told I was a good driver by him was great."

Mike Somerville, spokesman for the IAM in Banbury, said there was a popular misconception that advanced drivers were all middle aged, middle class, middle Britain - but that was far from the truth.

He said: "We are a real cross-section of people who like to get the best out of driving. The group has a good and varied social side and there are advantages to being an advanced driver - such as lower insurance premiums with many companies."

Anyone interested in joining the IAM in Banbury can turn up at one of the group's regular meetings on the first Sunday of every month between 10am and midday, or they can telephone Mr Somerville on Banbury 250067.