Des’s life in the fast but really-quite-careful lane

Des Conroy: he’s got the keys and he plans to use ‘em

AFTER 70 years behind the wheel a 92-year-old Grotton man decided to take it up a gear - by taking his Advanced Driving Test.

Des Conroy, who first learned to drive when there was no test to take, is believed to be the UK’s oldest person to pass the advanced test - something he hadn’t actually intended to do.

Des wanted to receive the training to improve his driving skills and get rid of bad habits he might have picked up over the years. He took the test after being encouraged by his tutors.

He said: “I took the test to encourage people in their 70s, 80s and even 90s to do it. Elderly people have had a lot of time to pick up bad habits on the road and this is a great way to either get rid of them or to prove to themselves they are safe drivers.”

Despite being in his early 90s, Mr Conroy, a retired medical director and former GP, has no plans to slow down and likes to live life in the fast lane.

He said: “If you are old, do what you physically and mental can and you will find you are capable of a lot more than you think. If you do less you will slow down and not live to your potential.

“I am very lucky to have had such good health and I do not intend to waste that. I’ll stop being active when I die.”

He added: “Taking the test reduces the cost of your insurance but there are so many other reasons to sit it. I think it is a great idea for young drivers to take the test as it then sets a high standard of driving for everyone at an early age and everyone benefits.”

Geoff Blackburn of the West Pennine Group of Advanced Motorists said: “It’s brilliant to see someone of Des’s age pass the advanced test; hopefully it will encourage others.”