THE Inland Revenue is undertaking a huge defensive driver training programme for its staff, awarding the training contract to Driving Services.

All IR drivers of company cars and pool cars will receive training every 18 months under the three-year contract.

Drivers who have responsibility for pool cars will also receive training, looking at their roles, the law, licence checking and practical skills.

Stan Ayling, head of commercial operations for the Inland Revenue, said: 'We have a very proactive approach to fleet safety and have provided driver training to our drivers for some years.

'We are now looking to add to this by providing training for staff that manage our pool cars on a daily basis.'