IT was a wheely big surprise for one performing arts student when she found out she had passed her driving test just one week after her 17th birthday.

Karla Millward, of Farringdon Crescent, Preston, already has the keys to her shiny new Suzuki Grand Vitara, a present from her mum, Lila, despite only passing her test on November 17.

The Cardinal Newman College student took her theory test on her birthday, November 10, quickly followed by her first driving lesson on the same day as part of a nine-day intensive course with Blackpool-based driving school, A1 Value School of Motoring.

But the speedy learner soon picked up the right driving skills and she sat her test two days earlier than planned after she got a cancellation.

Karla, a former Christ The King RC High School student, said: "I couldn't be bothered with having lessons every week because it just takes too long.

"I was over the moon when I found out I'd passed. I absolutely love driving and spend every day till about 4.30pm in my car and I've already taken my friends to Blackpool."

Karla, who lives at home with mum and 11-year-old brother, Karl, is already inspiring other members of her family to do the same thing. Her 19-year-old cousin, Samantha Braime, is planning on signing up for an intensive course.

"Samantha has been having lessons for ages," said Karla, who plans to study law at university.

"She saw how quickly I did it and I think she just wants to get hers over and done with now."

Antony Mitchell, who owns A1 Value School of Motoring with sister, Sarah, said: "She must have got her full licence in the quickest time possible after her 17th birthday.

"We're very proud of Karla's achievement and she was very dedicated and picked up the driving very quickly. We wish her many years of safe driving."