YOUNG people can put their driving skills to the test at a motoring in Petersfield next week.

Autotest gives would-be drivers aged over 14 the chance to get behind the wheel in a safe but competitive environment.

Organised by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC), in partnership with Southsea Motor Club, the event will take in the car park at Penns Place next Sunday, April 29.

It will allow competitors to practice precision driving around a specially-constructed course under the supervision of professionals.

Young drivers will not need any form of licence and will just need to know how to steer and to operate the pedals. There will be an instructor in the car at all times.

Southsea Motor Club was named the JLT MSA Club of the Year after using events like Autotest to introduce motorsport to new people and dramatically increase its membership. It was chosen ahead of more than 700 other clubs across the country and its work on Autotest with EHDC was highlighted as a big part of that success.

Julie Butler, EHDC’s portfolio holder for customer service, said: “Autotest is a great event and gives young people a chance to get behind the wheel of a car in a safe way.

“It’s a brilliantly-run event and great fun for everyone concerned and I am not surprised to see that Southsea Motor Club’s excellent work at events like Autotest has been rewarded with a prestigious award.”

To find out more or to sign up to take part, e-mail [email protected] by April 25.