A NEW driver has been awarded for engaging with a road safety campaign.

Nikitta Thacker, who lives in Bury, has won an iPad Mini as part of a competition run by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS).

She was presented with an award by Lesley Allen and members of green watch at Bury fire station.

The award was given for answering a range of questions about her experiences as a young driver and her views on what would help young people to stay safe on the roads, and completing a survey about the Glovebox Guide — a manual that is given to new drivers under the age of 25 when they pass their practical driving test.

Keith Hadley, green watch manager, said: "We are thrilled for Nikitta.

"It is good to know that some of the younger generation are taking to heart the importance of road safety."

Nikitta entered the competition after spotting the opportunity to win an iPad Mini in the Glovebox Guide.

The guide raises awareness about the dangers of driving, and states that 95 per cent of injury collisions happen because of driver or passenger error.

Nikitta passed her test in November 2019. She said: “As a new driver the thought of driving on a motorway was really daunting, but the motorway driving tips in the Glovebox Guide were really helpful and practical and by taking them on board I felt more confident when I first drove on the motorway.”

Road Safety Co-ordinator, Lesley Allen urged every new young driver to read the Glovebox Guide.

She said: "The guide is there to help you enjoy a long and safe driving career, as passing your test is the start of a new journey as you continue to develop skills and experience. The fire service still see too many devastating incidents involving young drivers and their passengers, and we hope that by new drivers taking on the carefully thought out advice within the guide, we will help prevent some of these tragic incidents.”

Under current rules, new drivers have their licences revoked if they accumulate six penalty points within the first two years.