South Africa, we need this! Not only to teach the youngsters a new skill set but also to promote the old bangers we all love so much.

Thanks to the UK’s largest pre-17 driving school, Young Driver, youngsters aged 10 and over can take a spin in a Vauxhall VX490, Morris Minor or Austin 7 with a fully qualified driving instructor. Adults will also be welcome to sample the driving dynamics of three of Britain’s most famous cars, one of which dates back almost 90 years.

Having spent the last few months fine-tuning the engines, the classic cars will be available to drive at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire, from 22 May and will be officially launched by motoring expert and TV presenter Quentin Willson. Events will then take place regularly throughout the year. The driving experiences last 15 minutes and those booking a lesson also get discounted entry into the museum.

The 1963 VX490 HB is one of only 10 currently registered with the DVLA. Having driven just 21 000 miles, it’s a remarkably well-preserved example of Vauxhall’s top sporting saloon of the ʼ60s complete with wood dash, sports gearbox and six ancillary gauges.

The 1934 Austin 7 Ulster Replica is cute, lively and amazingly fun to drive with cycle wings, fish tail exhaust, fold-down windscreen and boat tail alloy body. Just like the real thing, it’s deceptively brisk and guaranteed to make any driver – young or old – beam with delight!

The 1959 Morris Minor convertible is a classic British icon that radiates fun, charm and ʼ50s period loveliness. Finished in Old English White with red trim and hood it’s easy to drive with light controls and a sweet gearbox.

Car expert and enthusiast Quentin Willson, who is a patron of Young Driver, added: “Kids driving classics isn’t just fun, it will teach young drivers special skills. Being extra delicate with steering, clutch and brakes, listening to the rise and fall of the engine and getting used to large turning circles will make them more patient and mechanically sympathetic. I think it’s a great idea.”