Whilst serving in the Royal Navy back in 1970, I took on the IAM driving as a DIY project and passed much to my surprise. I thought at the time I was not a bad driver and things have not changed over the years (a bit iffy).
After 23 years in the RN, I retired and became a Coach Operator and started up a small Coach Business which ran for 22 years before retiring (not again) at the age of 58. To occupy my time during retirement joined a local IAM group. In 2001 I passed the IAM test in Minibuses and Commercial vehicles and then became an Observer in 2002 and a Senior Observer in 2004.
In order to enhance my Observing skills I joined the Edinburgh ROSPA Group and achieved a Gold Pass in 2003 and again in the re-test in 2006 when I also became a Car Tutor.
I think driving is in my blood when it is not alcohol and I classify Observing as one of my main hobbies, promoting road safety and a good standard of driving as my main objectives.
Due to my Wife being disabled, I have been promoted to Boss of the house and taking on all of its chores, she keeps her eye on me when I am chauffeuring her about. Other than that I am a very amateur gardener and a very experienced mountain walker.