NEARLY half of all drivers in Hampshire are worried about an elderly relative behind the wheel according to a survey.

The study taken by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) charity revealed that 40 per cent of drivers in the county do not want older relatives driving – but are unlikely to do anything about it.

Now the charity is calling on the Government to introduce a national strategy of driving health checks and putting out better information for elderly drivers and their families.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Driving is associated with independence, so giving up the car keys can be a very stressful process.

“This is especially true for drivers with dementia as they often underestimate the impact of the condition on their driving skills.

“With ever increasing numbers of elderly drivers, this is a growing mobility and road safety issue that won’t go away. The government needs to act now.”