a new scheme to help encourage safer driving has been launched by Swindon Council.

Called Pass Plus, the council's road safety unit is offering £60 off the cost of the Pass Plus programme to all new drivers living and taking their test in Swindon.

According to statistics, new drivers are involved in 29 percent of accidents.

Pass Plus involves more driving lessons in the form of six specially-designed driver training modules which cover driving in town, out of town, in all weathers, at night and on both dual carriageways and motorways.

Both the Driving Standards Agency and Insurers endorse the scheme.

Taking advantage of the scheme can mean significantly decreased insurance premiums, which are often extremely high for new drivers.

You may take the Pass Plus course within your first year of passing the driving test but can only apply for the 50 percent reduction if you live in Swindon and have successfully taken your test in the town.

To find out more about the discounted Pass Plus scheme or an application form, call the council's road safety department on Swindon 466399