A TEENAGER from Alcester has claimed first place in a prestigious national driving competition.

Oliver Smith, 16, who attends Alcester Grammar school, was one of 20 finalists in the 14 to 16 age category at the Young Driver Challenge 2018.

Youngsters hoping to be named Britain’s Best Young Driver came from all over the country to take part in the event, held in Gloucestershire.

Oliver wowed the judges with his skills behind the wheel – being marked on general control, judgement and positioning, as well as manoeuvres including parallel parking, emergency stops and steering.

He said: “I can’t believe I got first place.

"I was delighted to win the challenge. Even without winning, I had a really good time and improved my skills further.

"It was a challenging day, but I enjoyed getting behind the wheel and showing the judges what I can do."

He added: "I feel like all this experience is going to be so helpful when it comes to getting on the road for real - I’ll already have a good understanding of how to physically drive the car and will be able to focus more on my surroundings. Taking part, and doing so well in the young driver challenge had really boosted my confidence in lots of ways.”

His prize includes a trophy, £200 cash, driving lesson vouchers and a £75 restaurant voucher.

The aim of the scheme is to create a safer next generation of drivers.

Laura White, from Young Driver, said: “Huge congratulations to Oliver, who should be very proud of how well he’s done. The quality of driving from the finalists was extremely high, so it was tough going – the instructors really put the finalists through their paces.

She added: "It’s always fantastic to see how seriously the finalists take their driving, they understand that responsibility of being behind the wheel – but they also have massive smiles on their faces as they’re having so much fun.”