Thanks to a city garage, a few more of us can claim to be better equipped behind the wheel. Features editor Julia Ogden reports.

TIPS and practical advice on how to avoid road rage incidents are invaluable for any woman whether they know all about cars or not.

Just as important is advice on how to look after your car.

A number of women were given the opportunity by one of the city's car dealerships.

Vauxhall Marshall in Boongate, Peterborough, hosted the self-help course so women drivers could learn the basics of mechanics and self-protection.

The aim was to give women drivers more confidence should they find themselves stranded by the roadside and provide helpful tips about driving in today's stressful conditions.

The Women in the Driving Seat course also included roadside get-you-home tips, defensive driving and how to ward off a possible road rage attacker from a host of special guests.

Related:
Read the tips: Advice for female motorists

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Karate instructor and self-protection specialist Grant Hicks made the subject of defending yourself from a would-be mugger both entertaining and instructive.

He developed the personal safety theme, and demonstrated a quick-fire method of foiling a would-be assailant, which involved disarming him, or her, in three easy moves with the aid of every day objects such as a torch or a pen.

"Women are perceived as being more vulnerable than men and are seen as an easy target when it comes to road rage," said Mr Hicks. "Also, other people are scared to get involved, even if they see it's a woman being attacked, so you have to be able to defend yourself."

The psychology behind dangerous and aggressive driving and dealing with behind-the-wheel bullies was also explored by ex-police chief inspector Vic Botterill.

Mr Botterill gave his audience advice about avoiding the need to use one of Mr Hick's techniques when faced with road rage.

"Mouthing sorry can stop a minor incident turning into road rage," he said. "If you know you're wrong, just say it.

"If it's gone beyond that and you're dealing with a violent man, keep your distance – invading his personal space isn't going to make the situation better. Speak calmly and never, ever, smile. That will only pour petrol on to what is an emotional bonfire."

The visitors also headed for Marshall's workshops where volunteers were encouraged to change a car wheel under the supervision of the Vauxhall dealership's service technicians. They were also given practical advice, including dealing with roadside emergencies, routine car maintenance and checking oil and fluid levels.

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