Founded in 1956, the Institute of Advanced Motorists is a non-profit organisation registered as a charity.

Its aim is to promote road safety by encouraging motorists to take a pride in their driving.

I met Frank Parkin at the Parsonage car park in Haworth. Before we set off on our 'driving test' Frank told me he was the chief observer for the Skipton and Craven advanced motorists group, which is affiliated to the IAM.

A retired police officer, he has 25 years driving experience with the South Yorkshire traffic police and has been involved with the IAM since 1964.

"To become a member of the Institute you must pass the advanced driving test," he says. "It lasts about 90 minutes and the route covers about 40 miles and incorporates all kinds of road conditions."

As we left the car park and headed off down Rawdon Road towards Cross Roads, Frank told me that any current license holder can take the test.

"But it's better to have sought advice on advanced driving and observation techniques first," he says.

Frank has run courses that have been attended by other police officers, army personnel, and celebrities like Scottish comedian Billy Connolly and the Duchess of York. A recent course was held for Cabinet Minister's chauffeurs.

He pointed out to me the every day hazards that drivers probably don't think about. We approached a stationary car where the driver was about to open the door.

"Move out just a little and give yourself some room," says Frank. "He may not have seen you coming."

Another tip he gave was that when following goods vehicles, leave enough space between you so that you can see the wing mirrors of the one in front.

"You can see them and they can see you," he added. "Too many people drive too close and in the blind spot of the driver in front."

Anyone can join the IAM by paying an annual associate membership fee, which immediately entitles the driver to free guidance in advanced driving techniques. A trained member of the group will accompany the associate on 'observed runs' to prepare them for the test.

We headed towards the Five Flags hotel at Cullingworth. "Beware of the dip in the road," says Frank. "You can't see into it and there could be another vehicle parked up or a slow moving tractor. You have to be ready for anything."

We came out of the dip and onto the open road. "You can see the road ahead for a long way and you can make early allowances for vehicles coming in the opposite direction."

Frank recommended that, instead of changing down through the gears when approaching junctions and other obstacles, you change directly to second gear and use your brakes to slow the car down. "They are less expensive than a gearbox to replace," he added.

Drivers are expected to observe all the speed limits and drive with regard to road, traffic and weather conditions. "Some people say 'isn't this slow' when driving at 30mph. That's because they are used to driving faster than that," says Frank.

We turned left at Cullingworth roundabout and drove back towards the Flappit.

"Watch for the line of the street lamps up ahead. They will show you the line of the road," says Frank. He explained that most driving was common sense and thinking ahead. "You have to expect the unexpected," he says.

Drivers should be aware that children do run out between parked cars and that a dog may appear to be securely fastened to a lead.

But that is not always the case. I had first hand experience of that on Thursday night. I was driving along Tong Street in Bradford and another driver was following very close behind.

A ball appeared on the road in front of me and a boy hesitated before chasing into the road after it. I spotted him in good time but I still had to brake hard. I was more concerned about the driver behind me and the damage that he could have caused to my car by being too close.

"Drivers should remember the two-second rule," says Frank. "Pick out an object in the distance and if you reach it less than two seconds after the vehicle in front, you are driving too close."

We headed back to the Parsonage car park. Frank told me he had enjoyed our short drive.

He had given me some useful tips along the way. Now all I have to do is put them into practice.

Anyone interested in joining the IAM should ring Frank on 01535 642007.

The next course starts at the Three Links Club (Oddfellows Club), Rectory Lane, Skipton, on April 22 at 8pm.

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