YOUNGSTERS up to seven years under the legal driving age will be able to take to the wheel of three iconic British-made classic cars at a special event being staged by Young Driver.

The pre-17 driving school will be offering experiences 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.

Young Driver, which more typically offers lessons to 10-17 year olds in new Vauxhall Corsa SE Premiums at 70 venues across the UK, prepared to launch the classic car experience in Autumn 2020 - just as lockdown hit and events had to be put on hold.

The classic cars will be available to drive at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire, from May 22 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 well-preserved example of Vauxhall's top sporting saloon of the 60s complete with wood dash, sports gearbox and six ancillary gauges.

The 1934 Austin 7 Ulster Replica is cute, lively and amazingly fun to drive says Young Driver, with cycle wings, fish tail exhaust, fold down windscreen and boat tail alloy body.

The 1959 Morris Minor convertible is a classic British icon that radiates fun, charm and 50s period loveliness. Finished in Old English White with red trim and hood it's easy to drive with light controls and a sweet gearbox.

Sue Waterfield, head of marketing at Young Driver, said: "Since 1903 drivers have needed to be 17 to get behind the wheel - so our pupils will be the youngest to take control of these three classics. Lockdown has meant the cars have had to be rested for a few months, but we're delighted to now be able to properly launch our classic experience.

"We've given more than 900,000 lessons in new cars over the last 12 years, but the Vauxhall VX490, Morris Minor and Austin 7 will give a completely different experience. We're happy to let both youngsters and grown-ups have a go behind the wheel and take a step - or drive - back in time. The nostalgia factor will be huge for anyone over a certain age, but these cars appeal to everyone, they're absolutely stunning and great fun to drive."

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."

Driving experiences in Young Driver's Classic Car range will cost £25.