As eldest son has just turned 17 we are enjoying the delights of teaching him to drive.

His only previous experience had been on a go-kart track at a local amusement park. I was his passenger and it wasn't very amusing - giving a whole new slant on white knuckle rides.

So we were cautious when approaching his first venture into the driving seat for real. We set off to a local car park after shop closing time. I explained the basics and off we went - kangarooing to a jolting stall - time after time. (I began to fear for my car's starter motor)

I actually found it really difficult to explain what to do. After a few false attempts I had to take the driving seat again - firstly because by this time we had kangarooed quite a long way (which was rather alarming) and secondly to refresh myself on how to actually do it!

Eventually he got the hang of moving off - and managed a few loops of the car park in 1st gear. Great celebrations. I then suggested he applied the brake to stop. Sadly this is not the best way to stop - you need the clutch as well or else it can be rather violent, but I'd forgotten that little detail.

Luckily no harm was done. The bruising on the ribs is slowly subsiding.

He has since been out (on the road) with hubby, a few times - and can now get into 4th gear and drive at 35 miles an hour. Not sure if I will be able to take him out for a while - think I am too chicken - will have to wait until he has got a bit more experience under his belt.