OLDER drivers have been given tips on how to stay safe on increasingly busy roads.

Age Concern Durham County held a motoring information day, aimed at the county's over-50s drivers, at Meadowfield Leisure Centre, near Durham City.

The event, backed by Durham Police, featured tips on safe driving given by PC Dave Nixon, the force's road casualty reduction officer.

He also handed out leaflets containing tips on break-downs, night driving and driving alone.

Other advice, including changing wheels and keeping cars running efficiently in winter, were given by staff from Oates Garage, of Willington.

A paramedic gave first aid advice on what to do in the event of an accident, and a police crime prevention officer outlined car security measures.

Veronica Lewis, of Age Concern County Durham, said: "The aim of the day was to help motorists be aware of the dangers of being a driver. It was very well attended. It was such a success we are planning to repeat it elsewhere in the county in the future."