DEDICATED driving instructor Joe Atherton is clocking up a fantastic 47 years 'riding shotgun' alongside local learners, at the end of this year.

Joe has coaxed thousands of L-plated hopefuls to successful tests over the years including past Saints stars Wilf Smith and Arthur Pimblett and more recently, he tutored Jackie Abbott, lead singer of pop sensation "The Beautiful South" for a few lessons.

He gave his first lesson back in 1950 for the princely sum of just 12/6 (In modern money just over 60p).

Joe (67) of Teal Close, Haresfinch, who has always been fascinated by cars; was involved in the launch of St Helens' first driving school (The East Yorkshire school based in Duke Street) and in 1964 founded Clock Face School of Motoring.

Twenty-one cars later, having taught in vehicles such as a Standard 8, Triumph Herald, Ford Anglia and his preferred choice the Hillman Imp; Joe has helped thousands of people, ranging from the ages of 17 to 83, through the gruelling task of passing their driving test.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.