A driving instructor has told learners to follow the rules during the national Covid lockdown.

Under the latest restrictions, instructor-led lessons cannot take place and learners can only practice with a member of their own household or support bubble.

But that should only be when doing something essential, such as going to work or education.

Owner of Swindon's HFC Driving School Magnus Painter believes that he and other instructors in the town have been doing their best to stop the spread of Covid-19 but added that some don’t take the virus seriously.

“For many instructors, when we were allowed to operate, we wore face masks during lessons, we cleaned the car between each lesson, I offered hand sanitiser and opened windows for ventilation," he said.

“There were others out there that were ignoring the guidance about masks.

“There was about five to 10 that would be going out without a facemask on, which meant their students didn’t either.

“Others would have it round their chin, and others would blatantly drive into the test centre and then conveniently put one on when the examiner came out.”

Magnus added: “Learners are only permitted to go out with their parents but because it should only be essential journeys it should only be during those journeys.

“If they work, drive to work and your parent drives the car home, that should be the only time really. Or if you’re going to the supermarket. You’re not allowed to have driving lessons with your parents."

Once the lockdown ends, Magnus thinks a lot of people will be looking for lessons but instructors might not be able to take more on.

“It will be the same as last lockdown,” He said. “People will be enquiring but instructors might not be able to take any more learners on.

“Personally I’m full up and my students are just waiting patiently. As soon as they can take tests that’ll free up spots.

“I’ve got students who were due to have their first lesson this week but have had to be delayed.

“And when it comes to testing I’d expect there to be a six-month backlog.”