Institute members not slow
Almost 50 years ago, whilst in London, I took the opportunity to submit myself to the newly created Institute of Advanced Motorists' driving test. The examiner, an ex- police driver, when explaining why he was unable to recommend me for membership made the comment that the modest performance of my 25-year-old Austin hardly allowed me to give a demonstration of advanced driving.
Ten years later, driving a 100mph plus sports car as fast as the road conditions and the speed limit would allow, I was able to satisfy the examiner and so attain membership of the IAM.
Certainly in those days, candidates taking the test, while observing speed limits, were encouraged to make progress - safely.
To dispel the myth that IAM drivers were "slowcoaches", the director of tests claimed "an advanced driver can travel from A to B: as fast as anyone".
It was rather sad then to read the "holier than thou" epistle from Steve Phipps, Shropshire Star, October 9, and learn of his association with the local IAM Group.
Membership of the IAM has always been self-selective in that it is only drivers with a sense of responsibility that are prepared to spend the time and make the effort to allow their driving to be put to such a rigorous test.
Critics of the institute have often referred unkindly to the "great I AM"; the sentiments of the sanctimonious Mr Phipps can only serve to reinforce the beliefs of the misguided.
David Mitchell, Bayston Hill
