AS they glide up and down roads and pavements people might not think mobility scooters pose much of a hazard. But in a bid to prevent accidents and near-misses elderly and disabled users of the machines were invited to a special event in Yarmouth this weekend where police offered advice about how to drive them safely.

AS they glide up and down roads and pavements people might not think mobility scooters pose much of a hazard.

But in a bid to prevent accidents and near-misses elderly and disabled users of the machines were invited to a special event in Yarmouth this weekend where police offered advice about how to drive them safely.

Saturday's event, organised by Norfolk police, was the first of its kind in the region and originated from north Yarmouth safer neighbourhood team after concerns were raised by other road users.

The police worked with Norfolk County Council's road safety department to arrange the day for scooter users from across the county.

A course was laid out at the town's Marina Centre for drivers to test their skills and experts answered questions on safety issues, maintenance and driving practices.

Norfolk police crime reduction officer, Penny Carpenter, who organised the event, said: “This pilot event is the first of its kind in Norfolk and if it goes well it will be rolled out across the county.”

There is currently little in the way of legislation for mobility scooters. Norfolk police traffic manager, David Law, said: “There is no requirement for anybody who owns one of these to have done a driving test and no requirement by law to have road tax or insurance, but it is advisable to have third party insurance,” he said.

Yvonne Jones, from Yarmouth, who went round the course on her scooter, said: “It makes you realise how much control you do need. I think an event like this is a really good idea.”