Eighty-six-year-old Eileen Landon-Lane remembers when there was hardly any traffic on the roads and there was no need for roundabouts.
But 55 years after getting her first driver's licence, Mrs Landon-Lane thinks sometimes she and other older drivers need a little refresher on how to drive safely.
Mrs Landon-Lane often attends courses run by the Marlborough Road Safety Council aimed specifically at the older generation.
"There's always something new to learn and it's good to keep up with any changes with the road code," she said.
The free course is aimed at drivers over 50 and bridges the gap for older drivers wanting to revise their skills.
Organiser Geoff Powell said the group all have a similar outlook on driving, which makes the course more relaxed.
"Similar things have happened to them. They may have had a brush with a fence post or cars have appeared out of nowhere because they have not picked them up when they're scanning the roads."
He said road conditions had changed a lot over the years, which is something older drivers needed to take into consideration.
"There are a lot more cars on the road now. The type of traffic has changed too. There are more trucks using the roads to get to where they need to go. People need to be more aware of what's going on," Mr Powell said.
Mrs Landon-Lane, who has only had a few minor car accidents, said driving gave her a sense of independence.
"I wouldn't be able to get out very much [if I didn't have my car]. I know the time is coming for me to get rid of my car, but I'm not looking forward to it."
The next course will be held on May 25 at the Wesley Centre between 9am and noon.
Contact Mr Powell on 5788143 if you would like to attend.
By SIMON WONG - The Marlborough Express
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