August 24, 2025
Benson School of Motoring’s Big Court Blow-Up…

Well, buckle up, because the recent court drama starring Benson School of Motoring was quite the ride-complete with bullying, bizarre remarks, and a ruling that shook the motoring world like a learner driver stalling at the first roundabout.

In late 2020, around 20 instructors working under franchise contracts with Benson decided enough was enough. They sued-not for money, but to escape an “overbearing,” “intimidatory” environment, with one instructor even warning of fears Benson might come after her with a gun (yikes!). The High Court agreed and handed down judgment in early August 2025: these instructors were free to walk away from their contracts-no strings attached. Benson’s counterclaims-running into six figure sums-were dismissed entirely (ICLG Business Reports).

The court didn’t mince words. ⚖️Mr Justice Freedman highlighted the lack of good faith and trust, describing Benson’s conduct as “belligerent,” rife with demeaning, even racist, remarks—and the contracts, though framed as franchises, came off more like chains than freedoms (ICLG Business Reports). In short, the system was broken-and the instructors bravely drove themselves out.

Now, as Britannia Driving School, we won’t say “told you so”… but, um, we did quietly send cakes and sympathy ears when the headlines broke.

Because here’s the thing-we’ve built our reputation on respect, professionalism, and a dose of good humour-not fear or intimidation. Our instructors aren’t contract-trapped franchisees; they’re skilled professionals who love teaching and do it with warmth (and birthdays are rarely followed by lawsuits).

Like our wonderful, endlessly patient lady instructor Samai, teaching in SE25 and SW16. She’s the kind of instructor who can calmly guide a learner through starting on a hill, all while explaining the strategic art of mirror-use-and then cheer them up when they stall (again). She doesn’t need restrictive contracts or corporate yells-just patience, a friendly nudge, and maybe a well-timed joke about cyclists.

Contrast that with Benson’s nightmare contracts-locking people in, controlling their fee structure, even dictating branding-and you’ll see why the court stepped in. Britannia, by comparison? We believe in fair, flexible contracts, transparent operations, and supporting our instructors-because happy instructors mean confident learners.

So here’s what students and instructors alike can count on at Britannia:

• Real freedom to teach and learn without contract headaches.
• Zero intimidation-only encouragement and guidance.
• Family-like atmosphere, especially with gems like Samai in South Norwood SE25 and Streatham SW16.
• A brand built on trust, not tension.

In conclusion: the Benson case was a legal wake-up call about how not to run a driving school. At Britannia, we’ve got no wild lawsuits on the horizon-or hidden fees, or dodgy contracts-just genuine, respectful instruction and driving success with a smile. And maybe cake, but only if you’re good.

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August 17, 2025
Britannia Driving School: Shifting Gears and Taking the Lead in London & Surrey

Looking for driving lessons in London or Surrey and tired of the same old road? You’ve probably noticed one name zooming ahead of the pack: Britannia Driving School. From TikTok testimonials to glowing five-star reviews, Britannia isn’t just coasting-it’s accelerating into the fast lane of driving education. So, what’s causing all the buzz? Buckle up, we’re taking a scenic route through their success story.

30 Years on the Road—and Still in Top Gear

Let’s face it: in a world full of “pop-up” driving schools that disappear faster than your Uber Eats order, Britannia is a welcome classic. With over three decades of experience, they’ve taught entire generations how to handle roundabouts without panic, reverse park without tears, and navigate test routes like seasoned pros.

These instructors aren’t guessing what examiners want-they know. It’s like being taught by a driving Jedi who’s seen it all and lived to teach about it.

Lessons Built for Real Life (Not Just the Test)

Need flexible hours? Crash course before your theory test next week. Lessons in automatic because manual feels like trying to drive a dinosaur. Britannia has it covered.

They tailor lessons to suit you-whether you’re a terrified first-timer or someone dusting off an expired license from 2006. Plus, their pricing is fair and transparent, with DVSA-licensed instructors who are more “friendly mentor” than “grumpy driving school sergeant.”

And yes, they work evenings and weekends, because your job/university/kids/pet parrot won’t teach you how to drive.

Tech That Keeps You in the Driver’s Seat

Britannia isn’t stuck in the stone age of spiral-bound logbooks and phone-tag scheduling. Their website is as smooth as a clean gear change-allowing you to book lessons, see prices, and track your progress online.

They even offer online theory test support that doesn’t involve ancient CD-ROMs or guesswork. You’ll feel prepped and confident-without memorising the entire Highway Code in one sleepless weekend.

Praise That’s Fuelling the Fire

Hop onto Reddit, TikTok, or Google Reviews, and you’ll find learner drivers practically writing love letters to Britannia’s instructors. The consensus? They’re kind, patient, encouraging, and somehow manage to explain clutch control in a way that makes sense.

Review sites are full of five-star ratings, glowing thanks, and emotional pass-day selfies. If applause could be heard over an engine, Britannia would need earplugs.

Driving With a Bigger Purpose

Britannia isn’t just trying to get you to squeak by the test-they’re committed to building safe, skilled, road-savvy drivers for the long haul. That means they’ll teach you how to handle the unpredictable world of UK roads-rain, cyclists, potholes, and all.

With the DVSA constantly raising the bar on standards, that long-term mindset could make the difference between passing the test and panicking at a roundabout.

 Final Verdict? Britannia Isn’t Just Riding the Wave-They’re Leading the Convoy

Whether you’re itching to get your first license or picking up driving again after a break, Britannia Driving School offers the perfect mix of experience, modern convenience, and learner-first thinking. With a smart tech platform, flexible lessons, and instructors who care, it’s no wonder they’re getting noticed.

In short? Britannia isn’t just teaching driving-they’re redefining it. And judging by the buzz, they’re doing a pretty fine job of it.

 

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August 24, 2022
New strict rules may be forced upon Cyclists

Highway Code revised: Cyclists given priority in new rules as drivers ordered to keep 1.5-metres distance when overtaking | UK News | Sky NewsThe Mirror initiates this discussion, presenting the idea that Cyclists may need to employ number plates upon their bikes and may also be required to have insurance under new road laws currently being considered by Government. This would ensure a whole new dimension of cycling will be ushered in as a cyclist can no longer just sporadically decide to ride their bike, many factors must be considered, similar to the factors a driver must consider before using their vehicle.

Recent changes to the highway code emphasis the importance of making motorists more aware of cyclists and also increasing their safety. This highlights the attempt to alter the entire road and ensure the safety of all users including cyclists. In the same breath it must also be ensured that cyclists are safe as they can also reach dangerous speeds which could cause damage to others if negligence is presence. The transport secretary Grant Shapps is pushing for a death by Cycling law to be introduced which will ensure a gap in the law is closed which previously only allowed a Cyclist to be jailed for two years if they killed a pedestrian.

Throughout the country more cycling lanes have been introduced which coincides with the attempt to ensure the safety of all road users. Furthermore, with an increase in 20MPH zones there has been a shift to ensure all road users respect the speed limits including cyclists. The Daily mail highlights that cyclists may be given points or fines for speeding or jumping red lights. This will ensure a more transparent and equal road, ultimately promoting safety for all.

Charlie from Britannia purports that these possible changes could benefit the road overall and ensure that responsibility is present. For instance many cyclists may be reckless due to the fact many cyclists can escape liability due to lacking a number plates, and also due to the less strict rules. The only outcome of these changes is less accidents and a more safe road for all users, which is a huge goal for any transport system to strive for.

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August 12, 2022
Heatwave and driving

We are all currently experiencing the effects of the recent heatwave throughout the UK. With highs of 35 degrees and a longer duration than the prior heatwave. It is important to ensure drivers are as cool and hydrated as possible to ensure that any possibles dangers to drivers are mitigated. However, it is important to highlight that a few standard practices must be maintained even throughout this heatwave. For instance, the Express declares that drivers can receive on the spot £100 fines for improper footwear while driving or any other clothes that may restrict driving ability. This is important to bear in mind when deciding the outfit to wear before driving.How to stay safe while driving in the hot weather as temperatures soar - Independent.ie

Rod Dennis from the RAC suggests that it is important to ‘check the engine coolant and oil levels and to ensure the car is kept in optimum conditions.’ This highlights the importance of looking after you car during a heatwave, a possible overheating car can cause multiple implications which result in a danger for all drivers on the road. If you possibly suspect your car may be overheating ensure you pull over at the next possible place to stop and thoroughly check your vehicle.

Charlie from Britannia suggests a few ways for drivers to cope during this heatwave. He states ‘ it is important to ensure all drivers are hydrated and have eaten enough throughout the day to ensure energy levels are maintained and provide a safer roads for all the users.’ And he also states ‘ if a driver feels unwell it is not worth risking and they should not attempt to drive throughout this weather.’ This highlights the importance in ensuring that all measures are taken to provide safer roads throughout the heatwave we are all experiencing.

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July 26, 2022
Should Well-built areas lower their speed limit to 20 mph?

Currently well-built areas are operating a speed-limit of 30 throughout most London towns and this Major roads across the UK to have speed limits slashed to just 20mph – warning | Express.co.ukhas been a forefront for topical debate. Many have highlighted that London’s well-built areas are vastly busy and 30 MPH is just too much permissible speed for an already condensed and busy city.

The Welsh Parliament have recently passed a bill which introduces a set speed limit of 20 MPH in well-built areas which will come into force September 2023. Lee Walters the deputy minister for climate change states ‘reducing speeds not only reduces accidents, but helps improves peoples quality of lives.’ As the evening standard highlights The Welsh Government cities safety research suggests that if you are hit by a car going 30 MPH 45% of civilians are killed, compared to 5% if going 20 MPH or less, which seems a sensible piece of evidence to support the overarching topic.

However, many have disliked the new implementations to the speed limit viewing them as unnecessary and inefficient. For instance, many well-built up areas contain main roads which it may seem counter productive to change to a 20 MPH zone. The new proposed changes would ensure this is indisputable and ensures there is no debate on the matter. A possible suggestion may be to take each area as a case by case basis to ensure no areas are unnecessarily changed to a 20MPH zone when nonsensical.

Moreover, All star present a fascinating view on the matter that the proposed changes may actually be causing more harm. For instance, a study showed that minor incidents increased in 20 MPH zones by 17%, and this could be due to the difficulty in maintaining such a speed while others refuse to, which ensures that the drivers focus in distracted by the speedometer ensuring that the focus is not completely on the road.

Overall, Charlie from Britannia portrays the viewpoint that the changed may be welcome by some especially in more densely populated areas which may contain a large younger demographic. However, he also suggests the changes should be reviewed on a case by case basis, as opposed to just ensuring all well-built up areas are forced to adhere to the new 20MPH zone rule, this will ensure areas which may be considered as needing a 30MPH zone can maintain their current speed zone.

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June 13, 2022
Part 3 of ADI – Lesson Planning Secrets

Part 3 of ADI – Lesson Planning Secrets

Re cap and Set Goals with Student

In the car, ask the student what they did in the previous lesson and how they felt it went. We could ask them to rate themselves on a scale of 0 to 10. Talk about what didn’t go so well. Inquire about their objectives for this lesson.

Determine Your Goals and Objectives

Discuss how you intend to share risk with your student (verbally by mentioning it in Questions and Answers).

Discuss Other Driving and how your lesson plan may need to be changed.

When Examiner enters the car, you must briefly explain your objectives and goals, as well as what you hope to achieve from this lesson.

On the road, make sure your teaching method is based on the question-and-answer method. If a serious error occurs, you may have to stop the car and explain it to the student for no more than two to three minutes. The goal is to keep the car moving by asking questions early on to guide the student.

Remember, this is a proper driving lesson, so mention anything that has gone wrong rather than just sticking to your stated subject. Remember that if something serious or dangerous occurs, you may need to change the lesson plan.

Identify and analyse flaws (what caused the fault, the dangers of making such a fault and how you are going to put that fault right). You don’t have to stop your learner from cutting a right-hand corner. Explain the dangers of cutting a right-hand corner, why the student did it, and how they’ll fix it. Ask them what position they’ll take and what reference they’ll utilise. If that succeeds, ask if they want full responsibility to test if they can turn correctly. This strategy works for prompting and independence. End the class with a 3-minute summary. Ask how they did, if they scored themselves, what went well, what didn’t, and what they want to do in the next lesson.

Please remember to avoid subjects such as controls lessons, moving off and stopping, and turning from left to right from major to minor junctions. Manoeuvres: While a manoeuvre can be included in a lesson, it should not be the primary focus. The Examiner will confirm that the test will last 45 minutes, of which 40 minutes the wheels should be turning.

Changes to Part 3 and Standards Check

Many processes and procedures have been changed to protect examiners and their clients.

  • The test’s start and end times are set by the examiner.
  • The instructor can choose a different meeting location within 5 minutes of the test centre.
  • The 45-minute exam has 40 minutes of “wheels moving.”

The examiner will confirm any such arrangements via telephone. When they contact you, they will confirm whether your student is:

  • Undertrained
  • Trained
  • Full License Holder

An introductory or static instruction is UNACCEPTABLE. Keeping the car moving and ventilated during the evaluation is recommended.

The examiner will see a portion of your lesson with this student. BEFORE the inspector enters the car, you must:

  • Set a goal
  •  Agreed on a lesson plan that accommodates client preferences
  • Selected an appropriate route/region
  • Determined your duties and responsibilities in relation to the objective
  • Discussed risk management

It is then your responsibility to summarise what you have talked with the examiner in no more than two to three minutes!

Take your time with the goal setting/risk/roles and responsibilities, as there are no time constraints, but keep in mind that if this is not done correctly, it will become apparent as the course progresses! You will still be evaluated on ALL 17 COMPETENCIES!!

Go!

If a PDI/ADI takes too much time speaking or briefing, the examiner will tell them to “get moving.” If the PDI/ADI stays still, the examiner won’t mark the evaluation as satisfactory, you won’t get a score, and your exam fee will be forfeited.

Wheels should remain turning, but you can stop if something is wrong and benefits your consumer or if something harmful has happened.

Limit analysis and feedback.

Discuss a safety issue with three questions.

How come? (Why)

WHY If not near them, risks.

How to improve next time (What could you do differently)

Take them about and assign positions and duties. If the customer is comfortable addressing topics on the go, a short analysis can be done. It’s better to find someone who can accomplish this than someone who wants to chat.

The client can reflect on their performance at the end of the session, but just for 1-2 minutes!

Just three questions will do.

What worked

What went wrong

  • What do you want to work on next time?

Remember, this is your interview to become a driving instructor or stay on the list.

Types of lessons include:

Dual carriageways could be your platform, and your goal could be “entering dual carriageways, getting the speed right, and selecting where to safely combine.”

Find a location with many on-off and looping slip roads to give students lots of learning opportunities.

As a platform, roundabouts demand speed and discernment.

A busy circular loop to test your decision-making skills. As a platform, use country roads; watch speed, gear, and limit points on curves.

Ideal for a FLH to acquire confidence on bends and gear selection, etc.

The following will be checked:

  • Learning happens
  • The car is safe.
  • Value is good.

Frank Eustace, the trainer for Britannia, states, “The majority of candidates who fail Part 3 do so because they fail to plan the driving lesson. You’ve heard the adage, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” This is especially true when teaching people to drive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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June 6, 2022
Do You Have What It Takes To Be An Independent Driving Instructor?

Should you work for a franchise or go it alone? Each has advantages and disadvantages, ranging from the freedom of being your own boss to joining a ready-made brand – like Britannia Driving School – where you can concentrate on developing yourself as an instructor.

It takes time and effort to build your own business and create a decent customer portfolio; by joining a franchise, you won’t have to worry about these things.

If you need to earn money quickly and have a full diary, a franchise with a well-established driving school like Britannia may be the better option. If you want to work 40 hours per week and earn a monthly salary, joining a franchise could be a good option; going independent takes time to establish.

 

 

If you’re considering joining a franchise, keep in mind that a school with a high-profile office location, a robust online presence, friendly office staff, and a track record of satisfied customers will all help to draw in new students and keep you busy on a consistent basis. Britannia Driving School provides consistency, which is a rare commodity. Working from home schools cannot possibly provide the same level of work, services, or backup.

Being on your own in any business is difficult, so it may be worthwhile to spend time as a part of a Driving School before deciding to go independent. It is critical to have a solid business plan in place before committing to becoming an independent. This business plan will entail much more than simply creating your own website and placing advertisements in store windows – though this could always be a part of your plan.

Advertisements on search engines like Google and Yahoo are not free. You can display them for free, but you must pay every time someone clicks on it. It works similarly to a bidding system in that you set a price for how much you are willing to pay per click, and bidders who offer the highest price have their advertisement displayed in the highest position. The issue is that because online marketing avenue is the preferred method for most businesses, you must pay a premium to have your advertisement prioritised. Close to £9.50 per click on the front two pages.

If you’ve been in the industry for a while before going independent, you may have developed a network of contacts through teaching, attending events, and/or being a member of membership organisations. Extending your expertise beyond in-car training (for example, motorcycles and/or vans) will result in more work and excellent opportunities for an independent trainer.

Costs can mount when you go it alone. To begin, you’ll need to decide on a company name and a phone number for your new venture. An entry-level receptionist will set you back at least £10.00 an hour at the bare minimum. What areas you intend to cover and how you intend to promote your business and the cost of advertising.

Keep in mind that you may not immediately set prices at the initial figure you have in mind. As a new business, you may initially gain customers by setting a low price to compete but be aware that if your price is too low, you may not be making a profit.

As you are aware, adding fuel to your car is not cheap, nor is the upkeep and repair of wear and tear that occurs over time due to the heavy workload of driving instructors’ cars, so these are additional factors to consider when setting your prices. Cleaning your car may not be expensive, but it does take time. Time, as the adage goes, is money.

 

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May 26, 2022
Top Tips for Reducing Driving Lesson Cancellation

Top Tips for Reducing Driving Lesson Cancellations

Tip #1:  Be Direct

Consider the students, especially the teenagers, who do not have to pay to cancel a dentist, medical, or hairdresser appointment. So why does their driving instructor want to be reimbursed for a lesson that they did not provide? Don’t expect them to be clairvoyant or to just read your cancellation policies on your website or on the back of an appointment card. Spend a few minutes on the first lesson emphasising and explaining the importance of giving 48 hours’ notice if they need to cancel. Explain in a courteous manner how it may affect your budget if they cancel at the last minute. At the same time, promise them that if you must cancel the lesson, you will reimburse them as well. This establishes trust and demonstrates your honesty. Finish by simply asking for their understanding: “Are we okay with that?” Ignore this first tip at your peril. If you ignore this advice, don’t be surprised if a student calls a few hours before their class to cancel and gets a little shirty when you tell them they must pay for the lesson.

Tip #2: Provide them with an appointment card

If you wish to enforce payment for cancellations, you must provide a student with an appointment card and make them aware of the terms and conditions on the card. Cancellations might be difficult to enforce at times, but if a dependable client has a legitimate cause for cancelling, waiving the cancellation on that occasion can make good economic sense. You don’t want to lose a dependable client because you charged her for a class while she was in the hospital with her child.

Tip #3 – Don’t make an excuse for them

It’s a good idea to waive the lesson cost if a student is legitimately ill or in hospital, but don’t inform them ahead of time because they’ll use this excuse every time, they can’t be bothered with their driving lesson.

Tip #4 – Schedule regular lesson times

Keeping the same time and day for students as much as feasible might help lessen the likelihood of them cancelling. With the same time, the student can schedule the remainder of their week around their lessons. When lessons are moved around frequently, it is simple for students to forget when their session was or to double schedule that lesson time with other commitments. Keep in mind that if you keep altering the lesson schedule from week to week, they’ll expect you to allow them to do the same.

Tip #5 – Be Dependable

It is critically significant. Treat your students as you would like to be treated. So, if you want your students to be dependable, you must set a good example. You might want to ask your pupil if they can do the lesson earlier because someone else has cancelled, or if they can do it on a different day because you don’t want to go out for just one lesson that afternoon. If you believe it is reasonable to expect others to adjust their plans to accommodate you, they will expect the same in return!

Tip #6: Do not call them to confirm driving lessons

People may consider cancelling their class but do not contact you and will do the lesson if you simply show up. However, if you call to confirm the lesson, you are providing individuals an easy way to cancel on you.

Britannia Driving School Wimbledon SW20 8LB manager, Ms. K. Smith, stated: “Our instructors are issued with Appointment Cards containing our terms and conditions on the reverse side, which they deliver to all their learners on the first lesson. As a result, we experience many fewer cancellations than other Driving schools.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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September 27, 2021
Is it safe to keep a container of fuel in my car?

HOARDERS have been filling up jerry cans at petrol stations across the country amid the fuel crisis.

But they could be breaking the law by stockpiling in their boot. Here is everything you need to know.

Motorists can legally store up to 30 litres of petrol in a maximum of two suitable containers in their vehicles.

But it must be kept away from the passenger compartment and in suitable portal petrol storage containers.

This means plastic petrol containers up to 10 litres in capacity, metal petrol containers up to 20 litres, or demountable fuel tanks up to 30 litres.

The caps on containers should be secured tightly during transmit to prevent them from leaking.

And fire services recommend not filling to the brim as fuel expands and vapour can build up in warm weather.

Despite being legal, the Health and Safety Executive advices not to store petrol unless you absolutely have to.

And there is a grey area in the law, as police can deem your container as a “dangerous load” or “may be hazardous”.

The AA has also previously said it was “desperately worried” about people storing petrol and diesel in their cars, which is described as “incredibly, incredibly dangerous”.

A spokesperson said Brits shouldn’t even contemplate storing it at all”.

Drivers have about three months from filling up a container before the quality of the petrol starts to degrade.

If in a sealed container at 20C, petrol can have a shelf life of six months, or three months if at 30C, according to the RAC.

The heat it is exposed to, the more quickly it will go off.

Diesel on the other hand can remain usable for between six and 12 months.

If a car with fuel in the tank hasn’t been driven for six months or so, experts recommend getting it drained at a garage as it could damage for car.

Brits can store up to 30 litres of petrol at home or non-workplace premises without informing their local Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA).

But it must be stored in a suitable portable metal or plastic container, one demountable fuel tank, or a combination of the two, providing it remains below 30 litres.

There are also strict rules on whereabouts it can be stored at home due to petrol being highly flammable.

The Health and Safety Executive dictates it must not be kept in living accommodation and it must have a direct exit to open air and ventilation.

No ignition sources, excessive heat or sunlight should be present, and there should be no smoking or naked lights in the vicinity.

Containers should also be kept out of reach of children and animals.

 

Always decant fuel in the open air – not inside a garage or shed – and use a pouring spout or funnel.

An HSE spokesperson said: “Petrol is a dangerous substance; it is a highly flammable liquid that gives off vapour which can easily be set on fire and when not handled safely has the potential to cause a serious fire and/or explosion.

“This means there is the risk of serious personal injury if petrol is stored or used in an unsafe way.”

An empty container that previously held petrol may also be unsafe because of the fumes that remain, so ensure you keep the cap securely fastened and follow the same advice for storing petrol.

Despite it being legal, several fire and rescue teams from across the UK have warned Brits against storing petrol at home.

A spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said: “We strongly advise against the storing of petrol and diesel due to their high flammability.

“Because of the fire risks they should be stored in approved containers, in a well-ventilated area, and never inside the home.”

And the RAC warns: “There is always a risk when storing flammable liquid, so for the average driver, keeping fuel at home isn’t advisable.”

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August 13, 2021
Always Do your homework when looking for an instructor!

A couple who mis-sold driving lessons to thousands of learner drivers across the country have been sentenced to 46 weeks’ custody, suspended for two years, at Leeds Crown Court today (Friday 24th July) after pleading guilty to breaching the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations.

The pair have also:

  • been ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work
  • received director disqualifications for seven years
  • been ordered to pay £24,974.09 in compensation, £50,000 in court costs and £100 each in victim surcharges.

Beverley Midgley-McDonald (51) and Alistair Midgley-McDonald (52), of Stanwell Road, Penarth, ran ‘Drive Dynamics’, a driving school that promised customers very cheap driving lessons with local instructors, who were either independent driving instructors or franchisees.

The company advertised online, describing itself as ‘the UK’s most liked driving school’. This attracted many learner drivers who paid hundreds of pounds up-front for driving lessons. They were told their money would be refunded if a local instructor was not available.

Customers soon discovered the promises made by ‘Drive Dynamics’ were too good to be true. Specifically:

Customers would not be contacted as promised or even at all about arranging a lesson.

Instructors were not available in the learner’s area so lessons could not be provided unless the customer was prepared to travel elsewhere to get them, sometimes hours away.

Instructors who were available were not prepared to provide or continue with lessons, if they had started, because they had not been paid by ‘Drive Dynamics’

Every year from 2013 the company received hundreds of complaints, either directly or via Citizens Advice, Action Fraud, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and Trading Standards services from across the country. Hundreds of customers sought refunds or repayment through chargebacks, but the company actively tried to avoid giving refunds.In mid-2014, ‘Drive Dynamics’ was contacted by West Yorkshire Trading Standards and received training and advice to improve business practices, such as processing refunds, terms and conditions, cancellation rights and claims on its website. This advice led to a fall in complaints.

The company behind Drive Dynamics went into liquidation in 2015 – as it was unable to pay its creditors – and ceased trading, although it appeared that Drive Dynamics itself was still operating. The company was still trading, still making sales and still generating complaints under a newly incorporated company. Thereafter, the company continued with the same flawed business model that generated even more complaints.

Customers regularly posted negative reviews of the company on Trust Pilot, which led the defendants to hire outside agencies to manipulate review sites rather than provide refunds or improve business operations. As well as customer detriment, many drivers who had provided lessons simply weren’t paid.

Lord Toby Harris, Chair of National Trading Standards, said:

“The defendants profited from a business model that cheated learner drivers and instructors. Their company took people’s money, frequently didn’t give them what they’d paid for and ignored complaints and refund requests. Rather than take steps to improve their operation, they have acted dishonestly and it is only right that they now face consequences for their actions.”

The sentences follow an investigation by the National Trading Standards Regional Investigation Team (Yorkshire and Humber), which is hosted by City of York Council.

Councillor Andrew Waller, portfolio holder for Trading Standards at City of York Council, said:

Our team undertook a complex investigation into a prolonged period of unfair trading. Not only did the defendants leave hundreds of learner drivers, parents and driving instructors substantially out of pocket, but they tried to frustrate and delay the investigation getting to court. I applaud our investigators for their persistence and showing that unfair trading won’t be tolerated.”

The Advertising Standards Authority had also issued warnings to Drive Dynamics, ruling that its advertising to instructors was misleading.

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