Colbornes Volkswagen Guildford has run a ‘car confidence’ evening, attracting more than 120 women and quite a few men to its Moorfield Road showroom.

With the focus on car care, staying safe and driving in stressful conditions, the self-help course included basic mechanics, roadside get-you-home tips and advice on warding off road rage attackers.

Former police chief inspector, Vic Botterill, explored the psychology behind dangerous and aggressive driving. “Mouthing ‘sorry’ can stop a minor incident turning into road rage,” he said.

If a situation should escalate, self-protection specialist Andy Williams demonstrated quick-fire methods of foiling would-be assailants.

In the workshop, volunteers were encouraged to change a car’s wheel and were shown how to perform routine car maintenance, such as checking oil and fluid levels.

Shân Hughes and John Holcroft from the Institute of Advanced Motorists were on hand to discuss advanced driving courses.

As well as positive feedback from attendees, the event raised £273 for the Breast Cancer Campaign.