A NEW campaign to help young drivers stay safe and "drive well" will launch in Maldon in May.

The launch event is being held on Saturday May 5 at Maldon Fire Station, organised by Essex Fire and Rescue service, Essex Police and Maldon District Council and is open to all drivers and young people.

Young drivers can bring their cars to the station in the evening with a range of free vehicle checks, driving challenges, free food and competitions available.

Everyone who attends will be given a voucher for discounted vehicle repairs, tires and driving lessons and have the chance to win two RiZe Festival Tickets and a new car.

There will also be demonstrations from Essex Police and Essex Fire and Rescue service, showing their latest equipment. Young drivers can put their driving skills to the test in a Subaru driving simulator and test their speed control against the new TruCams.

Mark Durham, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: “The event should be really entertaining for young drivers as well as a good way for our emergency services to convey important messages to young people.

"A lot of young and newly qualified drivers understandably enjoy the freedom driving brings, but too often are unaware of the risks.

"The council has been working proactively with Essex Police to tackle nuisance drivers. This event is a good way for drivers to save money and check they are not breaking the law with modifications, it also supports the council’s objective to help people to be safe and deal with anti-social behaviour.”

The event will be attended by Ben Wilson, a young driver who narrowly escaped from a near fatal crash. The remains of his crashed car will also be at the event.

Prizes and free vouchers will be available from Quest Motors, Super Tires and Supreme Driving School.

The event runs from 6.30pm to 11pm at the station on Spital Road.