A new programme aimed at helping mature Selwyn drivers "fit" their vehicles starts in March.

Selwyn District Road Safety Co-ordinator Ngaire Tinning says there are increasing numbers of older drivers on our roads.

"As a mainly rural area, independence and access to services is as vital to our older residents as the need to keep as mobile as possible.

"Unfortunately, with this rise in the number of older drivers comes an increasing crash rate among older drivers. Over the last three years the majority of crashes involving older people over 60 reported crash factors such as failing to stop and give way at intersections, or failing to notice vehicles," Mrs Tinning says.

Selwyn District Council and Age Concern offer regular free Confident Driving Courses designed to help older drivers remain confident in their driving and encourage an increased awareness of the traffic environment and other road users.

The new Carfit programme consists of a short check, (usually about 20 minutes), which will be offered a few weeks after each Confident Drivers Course.

It is designed to help older drivers find their safest fit in their vehicle - seat position, adjustment of mirrors or information given on driving mobility aids available to assist the older driver. Carfit is also free and optional to attend.

There will be four Confident Driving Course courses (which include lunch) offered from February until May, in Darfield, Lincoln, Prebbleton and Leeston.

For more information about Confident Driving courses, contact Age Concern, 366 0903, or for more information on Carfit, contact Ngaire Tinning at the Selwyn District Council, 347 2901.