Driving School is a docusoap that was broadcast on BBC1in the summer of 1997, which followed a group of learner drivers around Bristol and South Wales. The series was made on a reduced budget but shown in primetime, it created one of the first reality TV stars in Maureen Rees. The series was created and directed by the British film and documentary maker Francesca Joseph. It was narrated by Quentin Willson, who would later present the similar Britain's Worst Driver.
Maureen Rees
cleaner Maureen Rees became a household name in Britain after spending hundreds of pounds on lessons and failing the practical test several times. She twice more failed to pass the test during the series, as well as the much easier written exam known in the UK as the theory test. Maureen's memorable moments include moving into the overtaking lane of a dual carriageway in the path of an overtaking car, and accidentally running over husband Dave's foot. She eventually passed in the last episode in an automatic, though after the series finished she passed a manual test. Maureen became quite a celebrity and even released a single: her cover of Madness' "Driving in My Car" reached #50 in the UK Singles Chart, and fronted a government awareness campaign to increase road awareness.
Others
Teenager Danny wanted to pass his test so he could visit his girlfriend in Preston. Although he passed first time, he had already broken up with Jill because he had found a new love called Jo Sidders in Bristol. Danny later tried his hand at football playing for Littesea FC and was quoted as saying "I may not be the quickest, but I can kick a ball straight" management followed for Danny but this was not as successful as his driving test as his current team Bristol Argyle are favorites for relegation to the Bristol Sunday Premier LeagueDivision 2. An older lady called Joan passed her test at the beginning of the series h, but had "lost her nerve" and needed lessons to rebuild her confidence. The main instructors were Pamela Carr from Streetwise Driving School and independent Paul Farrall. The Andy1st driving school was also featured.
