Of the 2.79 million tourists that visited Benidorm last year, it is estimated that around 832,115 were British, proving the Spanish destination is as popular as ever with UK holidaymakers. However, while you might find Britons relaxing on Levante Beach or enjoying a pint in the sun, there’s another activity many Britons engage in while on holiday.
According to new research, Britons have been described as the “worst offenders” when it comes to driving in Benidorm. But that isn’t driving cars – it’s mobility scooters.
Almost two-thirds (60 percent) of holidaymakers who visit the city end up renting mobility scooters.
Ben Redrup, owner of Butterfield Mobility Scooter, said: “Sadly, Brits are by far the worst offenders with dangerous driving in Benidorm when it comes to mobility scooters.
“I’m a Brit so it’s miserable to see but most certainly have less regard for others on the local streets than other nationalities when they should be used responsibly and only for genuine needs.”
According to research shared by On The Beach, 81 percent of holidaymakers believe drivers of mobility scooters should have driving tests before being unleashed on the road.
Now On the Beach, the package holiday company, that conducted the research, is helping those Britons destined for Benidorm with some “much-needed support “with a professional to step in and help.
The travel experts have enlisted the help of ex-Formula 1 racer and Les Mans 24 winner, Johnny Herbert, to give OAPs a mobility scooter driving lesson before letting them loose on the streets of Benidorm. On the Beach is offering customers that are eligible (over 55’s and/or have mobility issues) in Benidorm, the chance to enjoy a mobility scooter for free from July 8 for two weeks.
Mr Redrup added: “Only this week I have seen erratic and careless driving from Brits so I’m backing On the Beach’s campaign to make its mobility scooter riders more aware of scooter safety.”
British Grand Prix winner Johnny, travelled to Benidorm to give the over 55’s a driving lesson, and shared some key tips on how to stay safe and avoid any potential fines in the Spanish city.
Johnny Herbert, Les Mans 24 winner and F1 racing legend, said: “When I won Les Mans in 1991 and the British Grand Prix in 1995 I didn’t think I’d be teaching Brits in Benidorm how to drive properly on mobility scooters.
“It’s becoming a serious issue though and you need someone with the right standing to help out. Now I’m officially 60, I’m the perfect fit to give some safety tips to fellow older Brits so they get rid of their bad driving reputation!”
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach said: “We’ve heard from the Benidorm council that Brits are the worst mobility scooter drivers. They are all in need of some driving lessons.
“Who better to get on the back of one and give OAP racers some tips than a British F1 driver? We’re also giving over 55’s in Benidorm the chance to test out their newfound skills with free mobility scooter hire, so hopefully they take note of Johnny’s advice!”
Johnny advises people to always test the brakes on their scooter before setting off, and ensure they know how to use it. When using scooters, he recommends following local rules in Benidorm, which include staying on the pavement and avoiding roads, beaches, bike lanes and bus lanes.
Just as you would in a car, the driving pro says you shouldn’t be tempted to look at your phone and never drink and drive.
“Yes, you’re in Benidorm on holiday and you may have a drink or two,” said Johnny. “But don’t drink and drive or use the vehicle as a taxi. It’s one of the causes of accidents when on holiday, don’t risk it or take the biscuit!”