UP to eight people every day now take their driving test in St Helens, and for many, it is likely to be among the most nerve-wracking experiences they are likely to encounter.

In order to help put potential 'customers' at their ease, examiners at the St Helens Driving Test Centre in Atherton Street organised an Open Day at which learners were invited to go along and meet the staff, as well as getting advice on aspects of road safety from officers with the Merseyside Police traffic unit.

There was also a chance to give yourself a computer-simulated mock theory or practical test.

Examiner John McMillan told the Star: "Driving examiners have never been top of people's popularity list and the object of the open day was really to show learners that we are human - not just monsters out to fail everyone!"

The driving test now comprises a theory examination comprising 35 questions, of which learners must get at least 30 right; and the practical test and John added that examiners will take a number of things into account during the exercise.

"We realise that some of the pupils are going to be nervous which may affect their driving slightly. In addition, the traffic situation could pose a number of hazards and our decision is based on all of these.

"Having said all that, it is true that test passes have fallen in the last few years and the main reason for this is that many learners are now attempting to take their test without gaining proper road sense. It is not enough just to master the controls of the car - you need to be prepared for any eventuality on the road and know how to act accordingly."

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