Technicians at Kingsway Tyres are sharing their expertise at driver awareness evenings in association with First Stop partner Bridgestone. As well as picking up basic maintenance tips, drivers are being taught how to carry out regular checks that can save them money and even save their lives.

“We’re covering everyday scenarios like how to change a tyre, how to check the tyre tread depth and pressure, and how to check oil levels and water levels – things we all ought to really know about, but often don’t,” said Mark Buckenham, manager of Kingsway Great Yarmouth. “The evenings are hands on but relaxed. One of the key elements of the course is that motorists get to practice on their own car to make them feel more comfortable should a problem arise. The focus is simply making them better prepared, rather than expert mechanics.”

According to Bridgestone UK business development manager, Neil Cleaver, each attendee receives a take-home bag of safety equipment. “This includes a handy tyre tread depth gauge and pressure monitor because tyre safety is something we’re especially keen to promote through the tutorials,” he commented.

“A recent survey on behalf of Bridgestone revealed that Norfolk motorists are a little lapse when it comes to tyre safety, with many people neglecting to check pressures and tread depths as often as they should,” Cleaver added. “Shockingly, more than two-thirds of those questioned could not even identify the minimum legal tread-depth limit. That statistic is a little worrying, and we’re doing all we can to raise knowledge and raise awareness.”