POLICE have launched a new initiative in North Yorkshire in an attempt to ensure young drivers are safe behind the wheel.

Officers at Easinwgold have set up a driving education programme to make sure young people have the knowledge and support they need to be safe on the roads.

Known as Ryde - for Responsible Young Drivers Easingwold - it will be formally launched on Sunday at the fire service training centre in the town.

Young drivers who sign up to the programme will be offered the chance to attend regular driving events and workshops and enter competitions. They will also receive an exclusive Halfords discount card.

The programme covers various aspects of driving including crash scene scenario workshops - involving discussions with collision victims, the effects and consequences of drink and drug-driving and the impact of not using seatbelts while driving.

Programme members will also receive guidance on the effects and consequences of using mobile phones while driving, the effects anti-social driving has on the community, speeding, and general road safety advice.

PCSO Michael Crosthwaite said: "This is a unique opportunity to create an incentive for responsible driving, while creating a forum for taking pride in your vehicle and driving skills.

"It is a fun way to learn about being safe and responsible on the roads and it is completely free to join, either by attending the launch on Sunday or visiting our website.

"Making our roads safer is a key priority for North Yorkshire Police and education is an important part of the strategy."

Sunday’s launch event offers driving demonstrations on skid control and utilising automatic braking systems, and presentation outlining the serious consequences of drink and drug-driving and the convictions they carry.

There will also be the opportunity to win a place on an advanced skid control course.

For more information about the RYDE project visit the North Yorkshire Police website northyorkshire.police.uk/index.aspx?articleid=4426.