Learner driver 'supervised' by pet parrot

An unqualified motorist from Barnsley has been caught driving accompanied only by her pet parrot.

 

The female driver was stopped for speeding near junction 22 of the M62 when officers discovered she also did not hold a full driving licence.

Under current restrictions, learner drivers can only take to the wheel if they display red 'L' plates and are accompanied by a person over the age of 21 who has held their licence for over three years.

Learner drivers are also not allowed to drive on motorways.

"Since parrots are not allowed to supervise learner drivers, her vehicle has been seized," the West Yorkshire force later tweeted, along with the above picture.

The unidentified 55-year-old now faces charges of speeding and of driving otherwise in accordance with a licence.

Chief Inspector Mark Bownass said: "The rules of the road exist for a very good reason and it is important to remember that if this lady had been in a crash or incident, she would not have been covered by insurance as she was not licensed for the journey.

"Learner drivers should not be on the motorway at all and anyone who takes to other roads as a learner must be accompanied by a qualified driver, have a good understanding of the Highway Code and also make sure they are covered by the qualified drivers insurance policy"