A DRIVING scheme set up to give youngsters a taste of what life on the road is like is on offer for the third year running.

Mega Drive, set up by Langbaurgh police and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council road safety department, is targeted at 16-year-olds from the Redcar and Cleveland area, including those with special needs.

The teenagers will learn about such things as vehicle ownership and the pitfalls to avoid when making a purchase, along with advice on car insurance, road hazard perception and vehicle maintenance.

The scheme will also give them an opportunity to get behind the wheel, under the supervision of a qualified driving instructor.

Last year, more than 200 youngsters took part in the scheme, and applications are now available from police stations and leisure centres in the area.

Bookings began last week at the Eston, Redcar, Saltburn and Loftus leisure centres. The fee is £3.

Organiser of the event, PC Vic Kendall, said: "The scheme sets out to highlight the pitfalls and pleasures of owning and driving your own car, and will give the 16-year-olds some experience before they start to take their lessons.

"Last year proved to be a great success with the youngsters, who really got involved with every scenario."

The event will take place at Redcar Racecourse, between October 17 and 20.