Learner drivers will no longer have any excuse for forgetting to use mirrors or signal, thanks to a new camera and video system.

Martin Day thinks he is the first instructor in the area to put cameras in the car, which let students monitor their driving and see mistakes on video during the lesson.

Martin, of Mirfield, has pupils in Wyke, Cleckheaton, Heckmondwike and Birstall. He installed the video system after seeing it demonstrated at a Motor Schools Association meeting at the Gomersal Park Hotel.

"There is a camera on the windscreen looking out in front and another behind the pupil's head to show the mirrors and steering wheel. If something happens, we can stop at the side of the road, rewind the film and watch it on the five-inch monitor through a headset," he said.

"The video can also be watched at home. If you watch a video, you might pick up 40 per cent of it but if you watch a video of yourself, that goes up to 60 or 70 per cent."

Pupils can bring a fresh tape to each lesson to log progress or record over the same tape after they have watched it.

"The video idea is particularly good for the beginner to learn about moving off, signalling, using mirrors and stopping because there is so much to take in," said Mr Day, a former health and safety engineer at Owens Corning in Hightown, Liversedge.

"It is also good for roundabout lessons and approaching zebra crossings."

The video system can help pupils practice for the hazard perception test, a new part of the theory exam.

"Formerly, you could use the Highway Code to help you pass the theory test. Now, you have to have a certain amount of road knowledge and videoing lessons means possible hazards can be spotted as soon as they present themselves."

The cameras are fitted with night vision lenses so lessons in the dark can be recorded.

"The camera's presence is also good for me," said Mr Day. "It ensures I give 100 per cent to each lesson because I am being filmed and it could be shown to others."