Visitors to this summer’s inaugural Shropshire Festival of Transport will be offered the chance to improve their driving skills at the event.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists will be at the County Showground on August 7 to provide free assessments with a trained observer, giving drivers chance to test their manoeuvring skills and confidence in a car supplied by TJ Vickers.

The initiative is sponsored by Shropshire Fire and Rescue as part of their awareness campaign aimed at reducing the number of younger drivers having accidents.

Festival of Transport organiser Ken Williams said: “This is a great opportunity for drivers to take part in a practical session, aimed at testing their knowledge about safe driving.

“There will also be a free prize draw to win a driving assessment out on the road with a trained observer, worth £25, as well as a year’s membership with the Institute of Advanced Motorists.”

There will be several prizes of a complete driving course, worth £139, in a separate prize draw for drivers aged 17-25 who have a full driving licence. Members of the Institute benefit from discounts on breakdown cover, insurance and hotels.

The Shropshire Festival of Transport, taking place at the Berwick Road site in Shrewsbury, brings together a host of classic and modern vehicles on display, family entertainment and trade stands.

“We are expecting classic cars, military and heavy goods vehicles, buses and vans, as well as modern motors on show,” said Mr Williams.

“The Festival also incorporates the Jaguar Enthusiast Club’s West Midlands Day – with chance to enter the JEC’s raffle to win a Jaguar XKR.

“And we have entertainment from the Savage Skills mountain bike display team and the Porthywaen Silver Band, local food, and lots of motoring-related stalls, so there should be something for everyone.

“We aim to make it a great family day out.”

Many of the major car dealerships in Shropshire are expected to showcase their latest models, and around 20 local car clubs have already expressed interest in attending. The main arena will host displays and vehicle judging, with family-friendly attractions, craft stalls and food outlets.

Tickets are now on sale at £7 for adults, £4 children and concessions via www.shropshirefestivaloftransport.org

The organisers are inviting trade stands, autojumble and craft stalls to book their pitches, with spaces limited within the showground arena.

Anyone interested in trading or exhibiting at the show, or in marketing opportunities at the event is invited to contact Ken Williams on 01743-851085. People who would like to help with the organisation are also welcomed.

For more information, visit www.shropshirefestivaloftransport.org, sign up for the Twitter updates www.twitter.com/shropfestoftran or find Shropshire Festival of Transport group on Facebook.