Older drivers who want to remain on the road for longer are being invited to free road safety sessions taking place across the Black Country.

The sessions are organised by the four Black Country councils, West Midlands Police, West Midlands Fire Service and Highways England and will provide advice to help people aged 60 and over 'drive safer for longer’.

Brake, the road safety charity, says that there are more older drivers on the roads than ever before, with the number of drivers aged 70 plus in the UK increasing by more than a third between 2002 and 2013.

While research does not indicate that there is a specific age at which people become unable to drive safely – someone aged 70 may be fitter, more alert and active then someone else much younger – Brake says that ageing eventually brings about a general deterioration in health and physical ability, as well as changes in cognitive performance, all of which can affect driving.

This may be a gradual process, meaning people won't necessarily notice straight away if their driving is affected.

The Driving Safer For Longer sessions will take place at Haden Cross Fire Station, Cradley Heath, on Wednesday 20 November and Walsall Fire Station on Friday 13 September.

Places will be allocated on a first come basis - courses in March and June have already been filled, so people are advised to book early.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for highways and environment councillor David Hosell said: "Driving can be an important part of an older person’s independence, so we want to help people keep hold of that while making sure they are safe being on the road.

“It’s important that older people are aware of their driving skills. These sessions are designed to help drivers recognise any issues with eyesight, decision-making or reaction times and help them take action to address any potential problems so that they can drive safer for longer."

To book your place, please call 01384 815433 or email road.safety@dudley.gov.uk.

Sessions start at 10am and light refreshments will be available.