1st Call Driving Schools for driving lessons

Female Driving Instructor Manchester

2009-02-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Chantell of 1st Call Driving Schools Manchester who has just passed her final Driving Instructor exam. She is now a fully qualified Approved Driving Instructor. If you would like to book driving lessons with Chantell in Manchester contact 1st Call on 08456431679.

Chantell is another trainee to come through the 1st Call Driving Schools Instructor Training Program. She came to 1st Call having failed the exam twice with another Driving School. For more information about our driving instructor training courses visit www.1st-call.co.uk

Letter from one of our customers

2008-12-08T02:11:00.001-08:00

Hi! Just wanted to let you know that i have recently passed my driving test through your company. My instructor was Andy Lewis. I would just like to let you know that i was extremely impressed by the high standard of tuition from Andy. His patience and tolerance during lessons was commendable and at times when it felt like i was never going to get things right he was encouraging and supportive. I'm sure the fact that Andy is able to adapt his style of teaching to the individual and their needs helps enormously.

Based my experience with Andy i wouldnt hesitate to recomend your company to any friends and family that are considering driving lessons.

Thanks again and please pass on my most sincere thanks to Andy.

Kind regards,

Diane Youds

Eco Driving can save £s

2008-08-25T06:05:00.000-07:00

Green eco-driving will not only save money by reducing your fuel consumption but will also help you reduce your vehicle's greenhouse gas emissions and the negative impact your vehicle has on the environment.

Fuel cost is a major factor in any car driver's expenditure so making sure your car is performing at maximum efficiency will help you save money on fuel bills.

Here are are top eco driving tips.

Roof racks, bike carriers and roof boxes will affect your car's aerodynamics and reduce fuel efficiency. If you have to use them make sure you remove them when not in use. Driving with the windows or sunroof open will also decrease your car's aerodynamics.

Change into the highest appropriate gear as soon as you can. Revving the engine in low gear consumes large amounts of fuel. For maximum efficiency you should shift up a gear when the engine is revving between 2000 and 2500 revs.

Maintain a steady speed using the highest gear possible. The most efficient speed is typically around 45 - 50mph. Driving faster than this will greatly increase your fuel consumption. The Department of Transport claim driving at 70 mph uses up to 9% more fuel than at 60 mph and up to 15% more than at 50 mph.

If you anticipate being stuck in a queue of traffic for more than a minute or so then cutting the engine will save petrol and reduce emissions.

Avoid short journeys, car engines use more fuel when cold and catalytic converters take around six miles before they become effective.

Check your tyre pressure regularly. Under-inflated tyres are dangerous and can increase fuel consumption by up to 3%.

Don't turn on the engine and leave it idling in order to warm up your car. This wastes fuel and causes engine wear.

Turning on the air condition for long periods of time will significantly increase fuel consumption.

Plan your journeys so that you avoid congestion, road works and getting lost.

Have your car serviced according to the manufacturers schedule. This will help maintain engine efficiency and cut fuel consumption.

Driving Lessons in Oldham

2008-08-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

1st Call Driving Schools Oldham offer competitively priced driving lessons for all standards of learner drivers. Our Oldham brach also offer a range of post test driving courses including; Pass Plus, Refresher lessons, motorway courses. Driving Instructor Training is available with a guaranteed teaching position.

Visit www.1st-call.co.uk to see the complete range of driver training courses offered.

Liverpool's Mark Passes His Driving Test

2008-08-13T01:35:00.000-07:00

This is Mark Scurrah from Liverpool.

Mark learned to drive with Brian Smith of 1st Call Driving Schools Liverpool and passed his test 1st time with only 2 faults.

This is what he said, "It's fantastic, I'll have so much freedom I can't believe it. Thanks Bri for all your help"

Well Done!

1st Call Blog is Back!

2008-08-13T01:30:00.000-07:00

After some technical problems the 1st Call Driving Schools blog is now back online. Over the next couple of weeks blog admin will be posting loads of articles to make up for the lost time.

There are loads of test passes to be uploaded and these will be posted 1st. We have also recruited a number of new instructors and will post details of these.

Thanks for your patience.

Admin

Merseyside lady gets her wheels with 1st Call Driving School

2008-05-02T05:52:00.001-07:00

This is Joanne Walsh from Ceder Road in Liverpool. She passed Her driving test 1st time with Brain Smith from 1st Call Driving Schools Bootle.

Brian is a Senior Driving Instructor and has an excellent reputation for getting learner drivers through the test with a minimum of fuss.

If you would like to take driving lessons with Brain or any other 1st Call Driving School instructor visit our main site or give us a call.
http://www.1st-call.co.uk/
08456 431679

This is what Joanne has to say.

"I can't believe I've passed my test, I'm absolutely made up. It's my son's turn now when he gets his provisional next month you'll be getting a call Brian"

Liverpool's Sean passes Driving Test with 1st Call

2008-05-02T05:39:00.001-07:00

This is Sean Price from Liverpool. He passed his driving test 1st time with Brain Smith from 1st Call Driving Schools Bootle. Brian is a Senior Driving Instructor and has an excellent reputation for getting learner drivers through the test with a minimum of fuss.

This is what Sean had to say.

"Passing my test means everything. When I get my car fixed up it's going to save me a lot of money and time in travelling. Thanks Brian for Everything"

If you would like to take driving lessons with Brain or any other 1st Call Driving School instructor visit our main site or give us a call.

http://www.1st-call.co.uk/

08456 431679

Jennifer passes driving test 1st time

2008-04-12T12:28:00.000-07:00

This is Jennifer who passed 1st time with Mark Rigby on 10th april this is what she had to say.

"Mark is a fantastic instructor and fun 2 drive with. I had 21 lessons and passed 1st time, I would like to say thankyou to mark and 1st call driving school"

Mark Rigby is a member of the 1st Call Driving Schools Skelmersdale Team. He is a fully qualified DSA Approved Driving Instructor and has one of the highest pass rates in the region.

If you would like to take driving lessons with Mark please visit the 1st Call Driving Schools main site. www.1st-call.co.uk

Manchester Girl Passes Test in Liverpool

2008-02-18T01:49:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Emma James from Manchester who passed her test at Garston Driving Test Centre on 07/02/08. Emma passed her test 1st time and is currently studying Psychology at Liverpool University.

Emma was delighted and this was what she said, 'Thanks Paul I really appreciate everything you have done for me’

Emma was taught to drive by Paul Roach of 1st Call Driving Schools Liverpool. Paul has one of the highest pass rates in the country and his success rate is almost double the national average.

If you would like to have driving lessons in Liverpool with Paul Roach, or any other our other highly qualified Approved Driving Instructors please visit our main website http://www.1st-call.co.uk/ or give us a call on 08456431679.

If you are using a mobile we have a text line. Just text ‘lessons’ and your postcode to 07912755576 and one of our instructors will call you straight back.

Driving test success in Liverpool.

2008-02-18T01:33:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Victoria Hankin from Childwall, Liverpool who passed her test at Garston Driving Test Centre on 04/02/08.

Vickie said. 'Thanks Paul for all your help, I will see you in a couple of weeks when I do the pass plus course.’

Vickie was taught to drive by Paul Roach of 1st Call Driving Schools Liverpool. Paul has one of the highest pass rates in the country and his success rate is almost double the national average.

If you would like to have driving lessons in Liverpool with Paul Roach, or any other our other highly qualified Approved Driving Instructors please visit our main website http://www.1st-call.co.uk/ or give us a call on 08456431679.

If you are using a mobile we have a text line. Just text ‘lessons’ and your postcode to 07912755576 and one of our instructors will call you straight back.

Justice for Karl Campaign objectives

2008-02-04T07:52:00.000-08:00

The justice4karl campaign was started by Family and Friends of Karl Bond who was tragically killed whilst crossing a road with friend in Skelmersdale, Lancashire.

The aim of the campaign is to :-

1. Reduce the speed limit throughout the built-up areas of Skelmersdale to 30 MPH from 40 MPH.

2. Introduce more speed cameras in areas known as speeding hot-spots

3. Introduction of proper crossings on busy roads.

4. Caution signs to make drivers aware of designated crossing areas.

5. Raise concerns over the injustice of the road traffic accident investigations

You can show your support for the justice for Carl campaign by signing this online petition.

Top tips for Women Driving Alone

2008-02-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Many Women often drive alone and it is an unfortunate fact that they are more likely to draw unwelcome attention than a man alone. This need not be a problem providing you take precautions to avoid unpleasant situations and know how to deal with them if they should arise.

Lets consider four situations, Journeys, Being followed, Parking, and Breaking down.

Journeys: -

Always plan your route and carry a map. Try and ensure you have enough fuel for the journey, if not try to fill up early.

Being followed: -

Hopefully you will never be followed but if you are this is what you should do. Slow down, but DO- NOT stop. DO-NOT drive home, but drive to a well-lit place and sound your horn and flash your lights. This should get rid of the pest, but if not, drive on to a police station or find a police officer. A Service Station is always a good place to go. Many have phones so you can ring the police for help, or ask the attendant to do it for you.
If you are forced to stop. Lock all doors and close all windows. DO-NOT get out of the car. DO-NOT try and ram the other car, this may prevent your escape. Stop with the wheels turned outwards ready to drive off. Try and remain calm and confident and drive away as soon as you can.

Breakdowns: -

If you breakdown, walk to the phone. DO-NOT accept a lift. Tell the operator you are a woman alone. When you return to your car either, wait outside the car with the door unlocked and slightly open or sit in the passenger seat, you will look as if you're accompanied. If you are approached when on the phone, tell the operator, describe the person, or give the registration number of the vehicle. A genuine helper will understand your fears and will not be offended. When help arrives, always check their identification before you leave the car. If you are unsure, stay in the car and say you are waiting for the police.

Parking: -

When parking don't leave items on view. Always park in a well lit busy area. If parking in a car park, park close to the exits or near to the attendant. Reverse into the parking space so you can get away quickly. Always lock your doors and find a landmark so you can find your car when you come back. If possible return to your car with others. Approach your car with your keys ready in your hand. Check your car for intruders. Once in your car lock the doors before you drive away.
Just take a few simple precautions and your driving should be trouble free and enjoyable.

These great tips are brought to you by 2pass.

If you would feel more comfortable learning to drive with a female driving instructor, don't worry! 1st Call Driving Schools have lots of high quality Lady Approved Driving Instructors. Just give us a call 08456 431 679 or visit www.1st-call.co.uk.

Road Safety Campaign Justice4Karl on Facebook

2008-02-03T02:34:00.000-08:00

The justice4Karl campaign was established my Karl Bond's family following his tragic death in Skelmersdale, Lancashire. Karl was hit by a car whilst crossing a road near to his home. The road in question is a notorious accident black spot and one of the campaign's main goals is to force the local authorities to take the necessary steps to make the road safer for all users.

1st Call Driving School is proud to be involved in the Justice4Karl campaign and will do whatever it can to promote the campaign and build awareness. A facebook group, called justice for Carl has been created and already over 250 people have joined to show their support. You can join the Justice4Karl facebook group anytime by clicking here http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=23112722272.

Once you have joined please spend just a couple of minutes signing the online petition.

Thank you for your support.

Top ways to improve your fuel ecomony and save you money.

2008-02-03T01:43:00.000-08:00

Compared to other European countries, UK petrol prices are high and rising. With recent political and economical unrest the trend is unfortunately likely to continue. But don't despair, help is at hand in the shape of a few simple tips from 1st Call Driving Schools to help cut those fuel costs.

Slow down
Keeping your speed down can reduce the fuel consumption of the engine. It goes without saying that we should all stick to the speed limit, but your car's handbook will tell you what the most fuel-efficient in-town and out-of-town speed is for your particular model.

Lose weight
Avoid carrying any unnecessary weight in the car as heavy loads put more strain on the vehicle, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Find the shortest route
Taking the trouble to find the shortest route to your destination can make the journey more economical.

Cut the air con
Running the air conditioning increases the car's fuel consumption so if you want to economise keep it to a minimum.

Close the windows
Open windows and sun-roofs create drag which means that you won't travel as far per litre of fuel.

Share journeys
By sharing journeys with friends and colleagues the overall fuel consumption can be reduced.

Multi-tasking saves money
One long multi-purpose trip is more fuel efficient than several short ones, as a cold engine uses more fuel than a warmed up one.

Shop around
Check out the difference in prices charged by garages in your local area. Prices can vary, and if you are a high mileage driver who fills up regularly even one pence off a litre can make significant savings. Avoid filling up at motorway service stations as their prices tend to be higher.

Check your pressure
Checking tyre pressure regularly not only improves the safety and performance of the tyres, it also keeps the car running at the optimum fuel efficiency.

Smoothly does it
Try to drive as smoothly as possible and maintain a steady speed. Braking and then accelerating regularly will reduce the number of miles per litre the car can clock up. It's easier to drive smoothly (and also much safer) if you keep a gap of at least two seconds from the car in front of you.

Give the car a break
When queuing in heavy traffic or waiting for passengers, turn off the engine to avoid wasting fuel.

Stay tuned
Have your car's engine tuned at a reputable local garage to ensure it is running at the optimum fuel usage level.

Check the oil
As well as maintaining the correct levels of oil, motorists who want to save money on fuel should check the type of oil used, as some energy-efficient types can increase the number of miles per litre.

It pays to be green
Improving your car's fuel efficiency can minimise the damage it causes to the environment, by reducing the amount of fossil fuels burnt. Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere and contributes to global warming. By following our tips you can save money and protect the environment at the same time.

'eco driving' Has become an integral part of the 1st Call Driving Schools driver training syllabus with all 1st Call Instructors undergoing the necessary training to ensure standards are kept high. Whilst 'eco driving' is not part of today's driving test 1st Call belive it will soon become part of the practical exam. By teaching 'eco driving' now 1st Call Learner Drivers will have a head start, not just for the Driving Test, but for the rest of their drivng career.

If you would like further information about driving lessons or learning to drive please visit www.1st-call.co.uk.

If you are a driving instructor interested in learning more about 'eco driving' please drop us an email adi@1st-call.co.uk

1st Call Driving Schools support the Justice4Karl Campaign

2008-01-29T11:33:00.000-08:00

Karl Bond was tragically killed by a car whilst crossing a road in Skelmersdale Lancashire in January 2007.

Since his death Karl's family have campaigned tirelessly to prevent a tragedy like this happening again on the roads of Skelmersdale. The campaign is called justice4karl.

1st Call Driving School is proud to be supporting such a worthy cause and we urge YOU to show YOUR support by signing this online petition. The petition will be presented to the local authorities to show the level of support for the campaign.

There is also a facebook group called Justice4Karl please join the group, post a message and show your support.

Thank You
Paul Atkinson
1st Call Driving Schools

1st time Pass with Liverpool's Brian Smith

2008-01-27T09:03:00.000-08:00

Brian Smith is on a great run at the moment. All of his pupils seem to be passing 1st time. Joseph is the latest in a long line, this is what he said.

"It is great that I have passed my test. We have two small children so it means that my wife does not have to get the bus now when
she takes the children out"

Brian Smith is one of Liverpool's most experienced Driving Instructors offering driving lessons to learners of all abilities and backgrounds. 1st Call Driving School is proud to have Brian on the team.

If you would like to take lessons with Brian or any of our other high quality driving instructors please visit www.1st-call.co.uk or give us a call on 08456 431 679, we're here to help!

Liverpool Lady Passes Driving Test 1st Time

2008-01-23T13:10:00.000-08:00

This is Kez she livers in Liverpool but works in St Helens she passed her test on 21.1.08. She had a few instructors over a number of years but never stuck with them she stuck with me and passed 1st time she never thourght that she would ever pass 1st time this is what she text me.

"Mark is a fantastic instructor, really patient and down to earth. lessons were easy to arange and fun ! Thanks again Mark for everything."

Mark normally covers Skelmersdale but occasionally ventures to the surrounding areas. If you would like to take driving lessons with Mark or any other 1st Call Driving Instructor please visit 1st Call Driving Schools main site or call 08456 431 679

Bolton lad passed test 1st time.

2008-01-22T07:32:00.000-08:00

Steven Thomas from Bolton passed his Driving Test 1st time today with 1st Call Driving Schools Bolton. Steven was taught to drive by Anthony Rowland from 1st Call Driving School and is 'over the moon' now he has passed his test.

Steven is just one of many 1st Call customers who have passed this year. If you would like to have driving lessons with Anthony or any of our excellent instructors then visit www.1st-call.co.uk or call 08456 431 679

Parking rules 'could spell chaos'

2008-01-12T12:15:00.000-08:00

New parking rules coming into force in England on 31 March will cause "some chaos" for drivers and see the number of fines soar, the AA has warned.
Under the new system, there will be different levels of fine depending on the offence and where it is committed.
In some areas, the penalty for the most serious breaches will rise by 20% and the body which adjudicates on fines says it is expecting more appeals.
But the government insists the system will be fairer and "more transparent".
In 2005, the most recent year for which figures are available, eight million parking tickets were issued in England and Wales, costing motorists hundreds of millions of pounds.
Disabled bays
The Traffic Management Act will create five different penalty bands each incorporating a higher and lower level. Each local authority in England will be subject to one of the five bands.
The level of penalty imposed on drivers will depend on the offence in question.
Lesser offences will include overstaying in a pay-and-display bay.
It's a question of whether local authorities are geared up to do this Paul Watters, The AA
More serious offences will include parking on double yellow lines or in a disabled bay.
The AA estimates that three quarters of all offences will fall into the serious category.
Paul Watters, from the organisation, told BBC Breakfast: "It's a question of whether local authorities are geared up to do this, whether they understand all the implications of the new rules, and whether motorists are going to find that authorities are acting fairly.
"So it is quite a big change from one piece of legislation to the next.
"There is a potential for some chaos, as authorities are going to have to run two systems together."
Outside London there will be two bands. The charges will be:
Band A: Higher charge: £70, Lower charge: £50 (previously it was £60 for all contraventions)
Band B: Higher charge: £60, Lower charge £40 (previously it was £50 for all contraventions)
London already has three bands:
Band A: Higher charge: £120, Lower charge: £80 (previously it was £100)
Band B: Higher charge: £100, Lower charge £60 (previously it was £80)
Band C: Higher charge: £80, Lower charge £40 (previously it was £60)
For the first time, councils outside London will be able to issue fines by post using CCTV evidence.
NEW PARKING RULES
Local authorities outside London can issue fines by post if there is camera evidence
Adjudicators given more powers to cancel fines in mitigating circumstances
Increased discount period for fines sent by post - 21 days instead of 14
Higher penalties for more serious offences, but smaller fines for less serious ones
Quicker clamping and removal times Source: Department for Transport
They will also be able to issue a penalty even when a motorist has driven away before a ticket can be physically placed on their car.
Transport Minister Rosie Winterton said this was vital because "some people will drive away very quickly if they see a parking attendant approaching".
"That can be dangerous for other drivers and it can be dangerous for pedestrians," Ms Winterton said.
"So we'll be allowing traffic wardens to issue tickets even if somebody is in the process of driving away and that's a real safety issue."
Right to appeal
Councils will also be able to penalise actions such as parking next to a dropped kerb or parking too far away from the kerb.
Very few motorists appear to realise they can appeal at all Caroline Sheppard National Parking Adjudication Service
The Department for Transport says there will be "quicker clamping and removal times for persistent evaders", but "wheel clamping will otherwise be discouraged".
Nevertheless, the National Parking Adjudication Service expects its workload to increase.
Chief adjudicator Caroline Sheppard said: "We're preparing to deal with more appeals, but the current problem with the appeal system is that very few motorists appear to realise they can appeal at all.
"Obviously, we will be embarking on a better public relations exercise in order to inform motorists, with the new measures, that they do have a right to appeal."
Outside London, the toughest fine, currently £60, will rise to £70 for the most serious offences, but will fall to £50 for less serious ones.
In London, the highest level of fine has risen from £100 to £120, with lesser offences dropping to £80.
From 31 March, the time limit for paying tickets by post will increase from 14 days to 21.
Ms Winterton has said the changes will make fines "more transparent and consistent" and help to ensure those issued are "fair and justified".
VOTE Will the new parking fines system work? Yes No I'm not sure Results are indicative and may not reflect public opinion
Story from BBC NEWS
2008/01/12 13:22:19 GMT© BBC MMVIII

Wigan Lad passes test with 1st Call Driving School

2008-01-07T01:58:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to John from Wigan who passed his driving test during the Christmas holidays.

John trained with Andrew Tate of 1st Call Driving Schools Wigan.

Andrew is a local lad and is a very popular driving instructor. He has an excellent reputation and his pass rate is second to none.

Due to the amount of Andrew's pupils who pass 1st time he has a number of vacancies for learner drivers throughout the Wigan area.

If you would like to book driving lessons in Wigan with Andrew please visit http://www.1st-call.co.uk/ or call 08456 431 679.

Congratulations Dominic on passing your test

2008-01-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

Well done to Dominic for passing his driving test today. Dominic was taught to drive by Brian Smith of 1st Call Driving Schools Liverpool.

This is what he had to say,

"Thanks for your help in the last couple of days, as well as in Nov! You are a great instructor...all the best, and I'll be in touch soon re Pass Plus"

Dominic Wells-Cole

1st Call Driving Schools Liverpool. Paul Roach

2008-01-03T10:36:00.000-08:00

Hi,

My name is Paul Roach and I am a fully qualified Driving Instructor working South Liverpool for 1st Call Driving Schools.

I offer driving lessons for learner drivers of all abilities and also am qualified to conduct post test courses such as pass plus.

I love my job especially when my pupils pass their test, it's brilliant!

If you would like to book driving lessons with me or one of my co workers at 1st Call please visit http://www.1st-call.co.uk/ or simply give us a call 08456431679.

1st Call Driving Schools website re launch.

2007-12-12T04:08:00.000-08:00

The 1st Call Driving Schools websitehas finally been re launched. The new site is ram packed full of usefull information for learner drivers and potential driving instructors. There is an instructor's gallery where you can take a look at the 1st Call instructors and a new online booking/enquiry system. Soon we hope to add online banking and direct lesson booking.

You can visit the site at www.1st-call.co.uk, we welcome any comments or suggestion you may have about the site.

Top 10 Driving Test test failures

2007-12-06T01:57:00.000-08:00

This has been taken directly from the DSA data base.

1. Junctions Observation
2. Left Reverse – Control
3. Steering
4. Mirror Changing direction
5. Reverse Parking – Control
6. Gears
7. Moving Away Safely
8. Left Reverse – Observation
9. Move Away Under Control
10. Normal Driving

At 1st Call Driving Schools we can help learners overcome problems and help you understand the concepts of 'safe driving'. This will ensure that you don't become another DSA statistic.

Take a look at our main site for booking details.

http://www.1st-call.co.uk/ for driving lessons and instructor training courses