YOUNG drivers are being recruited to a course to help keep them and their passengers safe on the roads.

The EXCELerate programme has been developed by Durham County Council's road safety team to address the main causes of accidents among 15 to 25-year-olds who live in the county.

There are five different levels to the programme, each designed for a specific group, ranging from those who have not yet started driving to those who have passed their test.

The course includes sessions in schools and colleges, online training, and use of the latest video and computer technology.

Trained driving instructors also help students pass their driving tests and prepare them for driving once they have got rid of their L plates.

Among those to register for the scheme is 18-year-old Amalia Fenwick from Durham City.

She said: "The training really helped. I've learned new skills and feel more comfortable driving."

Alan Kennedy, road safety manager at Durham County Council, said: "We would encourage any young driver or young person thinking of learning to drive to join the EXCELerate programme.

"It will improve their driving skills, which in turn will help keep them safe on the roads."

For more information, please visit exceleratedurham.com or call Durham County Council's road safety team on 03000 268 172.