5 November 2008

Winter weather is on its way - and it can cause all sorts of problems for drivers. Some may find themselves driving on snow, ice or in foggy conditions for the first time, and it can be very difficult to know how to react in an emergency. 

Last year 71 people were injured in collisions in fog, frost, ice or snow in Buckinghamshire. Extreme weather conditions can make driving very risky, which is why training and preparation are very important.

So the casualty reduction team at Buckinghamshire County Council has teamed up with Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, local car dealers, tyre centres, businesses and the AA to hold a series of free winter driving workshops.

Each will consist of presentations from motoring professionals, along with practical advice on maintaining your vehicle and hints and tips for safer winter driving.

Valerie Letheren, Buckinghamshire County Council’s portfolio holder for transportation, said: "The winter driving workshops are intended to provide drivers with invaluable tips on how to keep their cars well maintained throughout the winter to avoid unnecessary breakdowns, and advice on what to do if you are unfortunate enough to break down."

If you would like to attend one of these workshops, please call 01296 382450 to book your place. The events start at 7pm and are taking place at:

• Citygate High Wycombe, 70-80 London Road, High Wycombe - 17 November
  
  
• STS Tyre Pros, Park Street, Aylesbury - 18 November
  
  
• Buckingham Ford, Ford Street, Buckingham - 26 November

There are also a number of daytime drop-in workshops taking place. There is no need to pre-book. The venues are:

• Tesco, London Road, Buckingham - 21 November, 10am to 2pm
  
  
• Maritz, Third Avenue, Globe Park, Marlow - 25 November, 12 noon to 2.30pm
  
  
• Asda, Holmers Farm Way, High Wycombe - 28 November, 10am to 2pm

Special sessions for college staff and students in Amersham, Aylesbury and Flackwell Heath will also be taking place.