MORE than 200 pupils from local schools were offered the chance to get behind the wheel and experience the feel of driving - without actually going anywhere.

BSM's unique driving simulator, developed at a cost of more than £500,000, toured around schools in Hampshire and Berkshire last week, as part of a nationwide roadshow.

The driving simulator, with a design based on a Vauxhall Corsa, provides an incredibly realistic driving experience.

Drivers can become familiar with a car's controls - and develop basic skills in steering, clutch control, gears, moving off and stopping - before they venture out on the open road.

The roadshow, which forms part of BSM's road safety programme, also allows students to demonstrate their skills on a computerised bank of Driving Theory Test questions and a series of hazard perception exercises.

"Learning to drive is a number one priority for most young people," said BSM roadshow manager Andy Brown.

"The roadshow gives students the chance to drive a car in a safe and controlled environment and to have some fun at the same time."

Schools which took part in the BSM roadshow included Robert May's School, in Odiham, and Costello Technology College and Aldworth Science College in Basingstoke.

Students who are unable to attend the BSM roadshow can pop into their local BSM centre or log on to the website www.BSM.co.uk