Drivers towing caravans and horseboxes this summer may be breaking the law, according to experts at Midlands truck, van and trailer specialists Hartshorne.  

Anyone who passed their driving test after January 1997, or whose licence was renewed after that date cannot legally tow a caravan or horsebox without first passing a practical test to prove their competence. Towing qualifications are graded as B and E licence categories depending on towing weights. 

Now the Midlands-based Hartshorne Group has launched new driver training courses to cover all vehicle and trailer combinations, including caravans and horseboxes.

The courses - to Driving Standards Agency specifications - are based at the company's training school in Burton-on-Trent and delivered by the Hartshorne driver development team. They cover theory and hands-on training, with the emphasis on safety.

Hartshorne training manager Troy Moore said many people were unaware of the need for extra training and a practical test to cover towing.

"Many accidents are caused by people inexperienced in towing caravans or horseboxes. Our courses aim to help people understand exactly what's required before passing their B and E category tests," he said.

Hartshorne's driver development team also delivers HGV and LGV driver training and is an approved centre for the latest Driving Standards Agency courses for both new and experienced drivers. Anyone interested should email driver.training@hartshorne.co.uk 

The family-owned Hartshorne Group - with its main base in Walsall - is the Volvo Trucks agent for the Midlands, with 11 depots across central England. The company also distributes Hino Trucks and Lawrence David Trailers throughout the region, provides body shop repairs and maintenance, parts, hydraulic lifts and driver training.