Swindon driving test centre opens despite strike

The Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) had warned that thousands of tests could be cancelled amid their opposition to a new test being launched.

Among other changes, drivers are now required to follow directions from a sat nav, complete manoeuvres such as pulling up on the right-hand side of the road and answer vehicle safety questions while driving.

PCS claims examiners say they face longer and harder hours with no extra pay.

But despite the potential problems, Swindon’s test centre in Fenn Close was open for business and the first two candidates of the day set off in the 10.24am slot without hiccup.

Katie Chapman, 19, and Gary Foreman, 31, didn’t know if their examiners would show up to assess them.

They had been told to attend the centre at their allotted time but were warned they may not be able to sit their test – in which case they would be given a new date at no extra cost.

But their anxious wait was over after they were called – both returning with wide smiles.

“This is my second try,” said Gary, who first attempted the exam 10 years ago.

“I’ve got a car waiting on the drive at home and I’ll be driving to work this afternoon!”

Katie passed on her first attempt with an impressive three minors and took the rest of the day off work to relax after the stress.

She said it had been a nerve-wracking experience as it was, without the added complication of her examiner potentially not turning up, but was over the moon she had passed.

Gary and Katie’s driving instructors – Tony Persico, 55, and Paul Kirk, 56 – were overjoyed that their pupils made it through the potentially difficult morning.

Paul said he had heard a rumour about the strike a month ago and the test routes around Swindon were altered following changes to the exam.

It was not clear whether any of the other six examiners operating at the Peatmoor centre would be showing up for other driving tests taking place throughout the day.