A GROUP of disabled youngsters geared up to make their dreams come true when they got behind the wheel of a car for the first time at Cribbs Causeway.

Members of local charity Special Friends Club navigated their way round a course, learned to change gear and had a go at parking during lessons at Young Driver.

The club, based across Bristol and South Gloucestershire, organises fun events and outings for its 150 member families who all have children with a variety of disabilities including Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, autism and cystic fibrosis.

Many of the youngsters struggle to access mainstream facilities but following a request from teenage members for driving lessons, the session for 22 members was booked at Young Driver.

Sophie Axford, from Special Friends Club, said: “It’s likely that most of the youngsters won’t ever get the chance to drive on the roads, but of course like any teenager, they want to try new experiences and have the opportunity to do things that their peers would.

“Driving was something they were really excited to try and we were delighted when we realised they could get behind the wheel with Young Driver.

“The instructors were fantastic, and it was great to see the children gain a sense of independence, yet in a fully supported environment. It really helps with their self confidence. “I’m sure they’ll be coming back for further lessons.”

Because Young Driver lessons take place on private property it can teach anyone aged 11 and over, including those with disabilities which may mean they will never be able to legally drive on the roads.

Kim Stanton, from Young Driver, said: “We work with people with a variety of disabilities including those who are blind or deaf, have prosthetic limbs, are in wheelchairs, or have learning disabilities or neurological disorders.

“The feedback from the lessons is always that they really help build self confidence and of course also that the drivers have great fun. We were delighted the Special Friends Club had such a great experience. They were all very talented young drivers.”

In dual-controlled cars accompanied by fully qualified instructors, they manoeuvred through the mock road system, navigating obstacles, trying their hand at parking and practising changing gears.

For more information about Young Driver visit youngdriver.eu or call 0844 371 9010. For more information about Special Friends Club visit www.specialfriendsclub.org.uk